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Florida Commissioner of Agriculture applauds announcement of Disaster Relief Funding

Dan Agri-Business, Economy, Florida, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Funding

Hurricane Recovery Funding Applauded by State Officials

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U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins

Florida’s agricultural sector is set to receive a major infusion of federal support following consecutive years of devastating hurricanes. Earlier this week, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced $675 million in federal block grant funding dedicated to aiding Florida’s agricultural producers impacted by the 2023 and 2024 hurricane seasons.

Reporting by Dale Sandlin, Southeast AgNet:

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture applauds announcement of Disaster Relief Funding

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson welcomed the announcement, praising the federal government’s recognition of the severe damage endured by the state’s farming communities. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), growers and producers across the state sustained over $3 billion in damages and losses from Hurricanes Adelin, Debby, Helene, and Milton.

“I want to thank President Trump, Secretary Brooke Rollins, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture for recognizing the need for critical financial relief for our farmers, ranchers, and growers,” said Commissioner Simpson. “Florida’s producers have endured back-to-back devastating hurricane seasons, and this funding is a major victory that will help them rebuild, recover, and continue feeding our state and nation. Food production is not just an economic issue, it’s a matter of national security, and we appreciate the President’s consistent support for our farmers.”

State Recovery Programs Provide Additional Assistance

In addition to federal support, the State of Florida has also stepped in to provide assistance. Approximately $150 million has been allocated through two key initiatives:

  • The Agricultural and Aquaculture Producers’ Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program
  • The Timber Recovery Program

These programs are designed to deliver emergency capital to help producers recover their operations.

FDACS stated in a press release that more details on eligibility, application procedures, and disbursement timelines will be released as the programs are finalized.

As recovery efforts continue, Florida’s agricultural community is preparing to leverage these resources to rebuild operations, restore lost production, and maintain the state’s role as a leading food producer.