WASHINGTON, D.C. — Help is on the way for farmers hit hard by natural disasters over the past two years. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced $16 billion in aid through the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) to assist growers who suffered crop losses in 2023 and 2024.
The SDRP is designed to provide quick, targeted relief for farmers who have experienced losses from events like droughts, floods, wildfires, freezes, hurricanes, and more. The program will be implemented in two phases.
- Stage One begins on July 10 and is for producers who have already received crop insurance or Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) payments. The USDA will begin mailing pre-filled applications starting July 9 to help speed up the process.
- Stage Two is set to launch this fall and will address additional losses not covered by insurance or NAP support.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if you had crop, tree, or vine losses in 2023 or 2024 caused by:
- Drought (rated D2 for 8+ weeks or D3+)
- Flooding
- Hurricanes
- Wildfires
- Freezes (including polar vortex)
- Tornadoes
- Excessive heat, smoke, or moisture
Payments depend on your insurance or NAP coverage level. You could receive up to 90% of your loss, starting with an initial 35% payment factor. If there are remaining funds, USDA might issue a second payment.
An Important Reminder
If you receive SDRP payments, you must carry crop insurance or NAP at 60% coverage or higher for the next two years, or you’ll have to pay it back.
What You Need to Do Next
- Check your mailbox for the pre-filled FSA-526 application form.
- Visit your local FSA office starting July 10 to complete the sign-up process.
- Be sure all required documents are on file with the USDA.
Ohio Corn & Wheat will share updates and resources as more details become available at www.ohiocornandwheat.org.
