Secretary Rollins Confirms Major Disaster Assistance for Florida Agriculture
Block Grant Agreement to Address Citrus, Timber, Infrastructure, and Market Losses
(USDA/Washington, D.C./July 21, 2025) – In a major move to support hurricane-stricken agricultural producers, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced $675.9 million in disaster assistance for Florida farmers during a visit with state agricultural leaders. The funding will help farmers recover from damage caused by Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene, and Milton.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) signed a block grant agreement with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to implement the aid. The funds will cover infrastructure damage, citrus and timber losses, and direct market disruptions. This grant is part of the $30 billion disaster relief package authorized under the American Relief Act, 2025.
“America’s farmers and ranchers across the Southeast and in Florida have been hit hard and suffered significant economic losses during the last two hurricane seasons,” said Secretary Rollins. “USDA has worked closely with the State of Florida to ensure those impacted have the relief they need.”
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson praised the announcement, stating, “This funding is a major victory that will help [our producers] rebuild, recover, and continue feeding our state and nation. Food production is not just an economic issue — it’s a matter of national security.”
The USDA is collaborating with 14 states, including Florida, to develop state-specific block grants. The agreement finalized with Florida will target gaps not addressed by other USDA disaster programs. More information will be released through FDACS to guide eligible producers.
Additional USDA Disaster Assistance Programs
In addition to the Florida grant, USDA continues to roll out broader national relief. Secretary Rollins launched Stage 1 of the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) on July 10 to assist producers facing revenue, quality, or crop production losses from 2023 and 2024 weather events.
Other major components include:
- $1 billion in Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) support for producers affected by drought and wildfire.
- $7.8 billion in Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) direct payments to help offset rising input costs and falling commodity prices.
Producers are encouraged to track updates and eligibility information on the USDA’s Supplemental Disaster Assistance landing page.
To learn more about available disaster assistance and how to apply, visit fsa.usda.gov or contact your local USDA Service Center.