The USDA is expanding the Livestock Forage Disaster Program, giving cattle producers faster access to financial assistance when drought reduces available grazing. The Livestock Forage Disaster Program, commonly known as LFP, provides payments to eligible livestock producers who suffer grazing losses because of qualifying drought or wildfire. One of the biggest changes announced by the USDA affects how quickly producers can qualify for assistance.
Beginning with 2026 losses, ranchers will be eligible for a one-month payment after four consecutive weeks of severe drought or D2 conditions on the U.S. Drought Monitor. Under the previous rules, producers had to wait eight consecutive weeks before assistance became available. USDA is also making it easier to qualify for additional payments.
Producers can now receive a two-month payment if severe drought conditions continue for seven out of eight consecutive weeks during the normal grazing season. For livestock producers across Florida, Georgia, and Alabama, those changes could mean receiving disaster assistance weeks earlier than under the previous program. Earlier payments may help offset the cost of supplemental feed and other expenses when pasture conditions decline during extended dry periods.
The changes are retroactive to January 1, 2026, and are part of USDA’s implementation of updates authorized under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. Livestock producers interested in the program or wondering if they qualify are encouraged to contact their local USDA Farm Service Agency office.
Audio Reporting by Elizabeth Sanders for Southeast AgNet.