AFTER THE FREEZE: SUPPORT FOR FLORIDA'S GROWERS

The following information was released by the office of Florida Rep. Brian Mast:

Across our state, Floridas growers are dealing with the aftermath from the historic cold snap. 66 counties experienced freezing temperatures with initial projections indicating over $3 billion in losses for our state. The freeze stands among the most damaging weather events in state history for growers.

For many farmers, these numbers represent years of labor lost. My office is working with growers across the district to help with navigating recovery options and available federal assistance.

Following calls from Floridas delegation in Congress, the U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a disaster declaration for 26 Florida counties, including St. Lucie, Martin, and Palm Beach Counties. This designation allows impacted growers to access necessary federal resources.

If you are a farmer in Floridas 21st District and need help navigating federal programs or connecting with the appropriate agencies, my office is here to help, but please consider the following resources that you may now be eligible for:

USDA Emergency Farm Loans through the Farm Service Agency

Crop Insurance Claims through USDAs Risk Management Agency

Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) assistance for damaged farmland

To file a Notice of Loss or to ask questions about available programs, contact your local USDA Service Center.

Floridas growers are resilient, and we will keep pushing to make sure they have the tools and support they need to recover from this historic freeze.