USDA Allocates Over $531M for Hurricane Helene Farm Recovery in Georgia Amid Aid Delays

Georgia farmers affected by Hurricane Helene are still awaiting the full disbursement of a $531 million aid package announced by the USDA, intended to help recover agricultural losses from the disaster nearly a year ago. While the funding amount has been agreed upon, Georgia state officials and the USDA are finalizing the administrative block grant agreement, which has delayed the rollout of this critical assistance. Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper emphasized the urgency and importance of the aid, noting the severe financial strain on farmers who have faced losses not covered by insurance, leading some to use personal savings or sell assets. The USDA’s broader disaster relief efforts include a $30 billion package supporting multiple states, with programs for supplemental disaster relief and emergency livestock aid, highlighting the federal commitment to agricultural recovery. Meanwhile, other states like Virginia have already launched their Farm Recovery Block Grant Programs, distributing funds to farmers and timber landowners affected by Hurricane Helene, setting a precedent for Georgia's upcoming implementation. Tennessee livestock producers are also eligible for federal relief through the Emergency Livestock Relief Program, aimed at offsetting increased feed costs due to flooding linked to the hurricane.