Farmers affected by flooding have until August 30 to apply for help from USDA emergency assistance programs, says University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist Heather Conrow.
The USDA Farm Service Agency provides up to 75 percent of approved renovation costs, to a maximum of $500,000, through its Emergency Conservation Program, says Conrow, who was part of a team of MU Extension specialists and USDA representatives that recently presented four workshops in areas affected by Missouri River flooding this spring.
Through emergency funding and technical assistance, FSA helps farmers and ranchers renovate farmland after flood and drought. Special rules apply to socially disadvantaged producers. The program does not help with sand removal under 6 inches or projects costing less than $1,000.
County FSA committees determine eligibility through on-site inspections. They cover commercial farming, ranching and orchard operations; nursery stock and Christmas tree farms,;livestock grazing areas; and conservation structures such as waterways, terraces, diversions and windbreaks.
Before beginning any work, you are urged to visit with FSA and Natural Resources Conservation Service representatives in county offices. FSA representatives must perform on-site inspections before any cleanup begins. Take photos to document damage. Most of all, do not begin any work below the “plow zone” until after an FSA visit.
The NRCS Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWPP) helps groups with a common problem. Cities, counties, general improvement districts or conservation districts may be eligible. EWPP covers up to 75 percent of construction costs for most restoration efforts, including levee repair, logjam removal, streambank stabilization near roads and sediment removal from drainage districts.
EWPP projects must reduce threats to life and property. The program also purchases floodplain easements. For more information, contact the NRCS state conservation engineer at (573) 876-0910 or visit your local NRCS office.