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