IFAS In Your Corner • November 6, 2024

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Extension Polk County

Farming comes with inherent risks, especially from weather events. While farmers can prepare for hurricanes and other severe weather conditions, ultimately, no one can control the weather. Each year, it is estimated that hurricanes and other adverse weather events cause billions of dollars in damage to Florida’s crops and agricultural infrastructure. After the recent passage of Hurricanes Helene and Milton through Florida, numerous farmers in North and Central Florida suffered significant losses. The purpose of this article is to help farmers prepare for future weather events and guide them to available disaster assistance programs.

Before a Hurricane

• Farmers should always have a disaster contingency plan for their operations.
• Protect crops and animals as much as possible and secure essential farm equipment.
• Remove any potential projectiles, such as debris, to prevent further damage.
• Update inventory before a hurricane, taking photos of farm infrastructure (such as barns, storage facilities, and fencing), equipment, crops, and animals. These photos may serve as crucial evidence of pre-hurricane conditions when applying for assistance.

During the Hurricane

• Prioritize the safety of yourself and your family over the farm.
• Stay in a safe location and avoid areas prone to flooding.
• Do not attempt to return to the farm until the hurricane has fully passed and it is safe to travel.

After the Hurricane

• Do not enter the farm if it is unsafe.
• Once it is safe, document any damage in writing and take photos.
  • Use before-and-after photos to help document the condition of farm assets.
• Document any losses, including damage to infrastructure, crops, animals, and equipment.
  • Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension County Agent if you need assistance during the recovery process.
• Use your documentation when requesting assistance.

Disaster Assistance Programs

Several agencies under the U.S. Department of Agriculture provide emergency assistance programs in cases of severe damage:

United States Department of Agriculture:

• USDA website

• Disaster Assistance Programs

• Emergency Relief

Farm Service Agency (FSA):

• US Consolidated Farm Services Agency

• Find your local Farm Service Agency

• Hillsborough County, Plant City Office for FSA (Farm Service Agency)
  Phone: (813) 752-1474 
  Address: 201 S Collins Street, Plant City, FL 33563

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS):

• NRCS website

• Find Your Local Service Center

• Natural Resources Conservation Service Disaster Recovery

• Hillsborough County, Plant City Office  for NRCS
• Phone: (813)752-1474
• Hillsborough County, Plant City Office Address: 201 S Collins St, Plant City, FL 33563

Luis Rodriguez is the Polk County Small Farms and Pesticide Education Extension Agent. You can reach him at lrodriguezrosado@ufl.edu.