For those affected by Hurricane Irma, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has programs that provide assistance in the wake of disasters.
For declared natural disasters that lead to imminent threats to life and property, NRCS can assist local government sponsors with the cost of implementing recovery efforts like debris removal and streambank stabilization to address natural resource concerns and hazards. That is done through their Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP). NRCS staff is coordinating with state partners to complete damage assessments in preparation for sponsor assistance requests.
NRCS can also help producers with damaged agricultural lands caused by natural disasters like floods. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), provides financial assistance to repair and prevent excessive soil erosion that can result from high rainfall events and flooding. Conservation practices supported through EQIP protect the land and aid in recovery. They also can build the natural resource base and might help mitigate loss in future events.
Learn more about programs that might be able to assist your operation at your local NRCS office.
09-13-17 NRCS Programs Help with Hurricane Irma Recovery Efforts