It depends on the location of your home and farm when Hurricane Milton moved across the Florida peninsula as to how you were affected. The effects of the storm vary from wind damage, flooding and even tornado damage. While efforts continue to restore power, millions have been without it and floodwaters have impacted some parts of the state. Milton’s storm surge and downed power lines resting in floodwaters continue to remain an immediate threat.
The damage estimates from the previous storm, Hurricane Helene, were not complete yet when Milton came through. So, what the agricultural damage estimates will be from Milton is not known yet, but efforts are underway to put that information together.
When it comes to damage to citrus groves, we were able to chat with Jim Handley, Executive Vice President of the FL Cattlemen’s Association. He talked to a few of their ranchers, who also are citrus growers, and this is what he had to say.
So, while efforts continue to calculate how Hurricane Milton affected agriculture, here’s hoping any damage from the storm to citrus groves is much less than was first anticipated it could have been.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which devastated homes, farms and businesses across parts of Florida, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has deployed staff to assist with response and recovery efforts.
USDA’s commitment to assisting farmers through streamlined procedures and increased flexibility in programs like crop insurance and conservation efforts. There is a focus on reducing paperwork requirements, enhancing loss documentation processes, and providing emergency provisions.
The USDA is working closely with state officials to evaluate the total impact and provide assistance to affected farmers. Emergency relief measures are being discussed, and agricultural experts emphasize the importance of a swift response to mitigate long-term consequences.
Farmers are urged to document damages for insurance claims while they work in the areas of cleanup and recovery.
USDA has also created a hurricane specific webpage that contains additional information on relief programs and deadlines for filing applications.
All USDA disaster relief programs are accessed through your local USDA Service Center where you can speak directly with USDA staff.