USDA Launches $16 Billion in SDRP Disaster Assistance Following Government Reopening
The Trump administration has officially begun rolling out long-awaited disaster assistance for America’s farmers and ranchers now that the government has reopened. The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is moving forward with the distribution of $16 billion in SDRP assistance, which includes support through both the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program and the Emergency Livestock Relief Program. This funding aims to help producers recover from the widespread natural disasters that struck communities across the country throughout 2023 and 2024.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting American agriculture during recovery. She stated, “President Trump continues to put Farmers First and provide relief to American farmers reeling from the devastating natural disasters that struck across the United States in 2023 and 2024. The continued financial success of our farming and ranching operations is a national security priority. USDA is doing whatever it takes to make good on President Trump’s promise to expedite disaster recovery assistance to U.S. farmers and ranchers, ensuring viability, prosperity, and longevity for these men and women who dedicate their entire lives to our nation’s food, fiber and fuel production.”
What Stage Two SDRP Assistance Covers
With the program now active, producers can begin applying for the next tier of benefits. Stage Two of SDRP provides coverage for crop, tree, bush, and vine losses that were not covered under Stage One. This expanded scope ensures that more producers—particularly those with perennial or specialty crops—receive the support needed to recover from extensive disaster-related damages.
Stage One Assistance Still Available
Producers who previously received an indemnity through crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) remain eligible for Stage One aid. This ensures that farmers and ranchers who took early steps to protect their operations can still receive the supplemental relief they need.
Key Deadlines for Producers
FSA county offices will begin accepting Stage Two SDRP applications starting November 24, 2025. Importantly, producers have until April 30, 2026, to apply for both Stage One and Stage Two assistance. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to visit their local FSA offices early to ensure timely completion of paperwork and avoid processing delays.
As the USDA accelerates disaster relief efforts, the SDRP program stands as a critical tool for restoring stability, protecting livelihoods, and supporting long-term recovery in rural America.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.