Drought Support for Small Producers

Nov 02, 2022

By Hung Kim Doan

California continues to face escalating drought conditions and as a result, Control Section 11.85 of the Budget Act of 2021 allocated $5 million for direct drought relief funds which will be administered through the CUSP (California Underserved and Small Producers) program partner organizations throughout 2022. The grant is provided by the California Department of Food and Agriculture and funds small-scale farmers of color, immigrant farmers, and undocumented farmers directly impacted by the drought.

Covered Expenses:

Increased electric utility bills of 50% or more due to increased electricity rates
Surface water costs if increase from year prior
Cost of hauling water for livestock
Lowering ag well pumps if a primary source of water is lost
Emergency upgrades to irrigation system (paired with conservation) if not covered through CDFA OEFI programs or USDA programs and for other emergency scenarios.
Decreased crop yields/crop loss due to less water available or having to fallow land

Not Covered:

Drilling new well
Upgrading pump to a larger size which would draw more water

How can farmers apply?

Farmers who have received a COVID relief grant will be eligible for drought relief funds one calendar year (12 months) after applying for economic relief funds.

Source : ucanr.edu

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