By Jamie Martin
With the 2026 hurricane season starting June 1, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is reminding producers to take steps to protect their farms from tropical weather. Hurricanes can damage crops, livestock, land, and equipment, but preparation can lower risks.
USDA encourages farmers to create an emergency plan that includes safety steps, emergency contacts, and evacuation routes. Clearing debris, tying down equipment, and cleaning ditches and drainage areas can also help reduce damage from wind and flooding.
Accurate documentation is essential. Producers should keep records of farm property, machinery, livestock, and crops before storms occur. These records support insurance claims and disaster assistance requests if losses happen.
Farmers are advised to review insurance options well before storms develop. Crop, livestock, and flood insurance should be active before a disaster, as coverage does not usually apply after warnings are issued. Emergency supplies such as food, water, fuel, and generators should also be prepared in advance.
Following a hurricane or tropical storm, USDA agencies provide several recovery programs. Farmers should report crop damage quickly and contact their local USDA Service Center for guidance on recovery options.
Assistance programs help with crop losses, livestock deaths, damaged trees, fencing, farmland, and forestland. Emergency loans may help producers repair property, purchase feed or seed, replace equipment, or manage farm debts during recovery.
USDA also supports conservation efforts by helping farmers restore land, prevent erosion, and manage environmental damage caused by storms. Early planning and quick reporting can help farms recover faster and remain productive after severe weather.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: National