The Agency of Agriculture has compiled response & recovery information and resources in recognition of the State of Emergency. The devastation that has impacted our state's agricultural communities has been severe and destructive. We are thinking dearly of people who have lost some or all, and hope that you are safe and recovering.
You can access all the response and recovery information at our 2023 Flooding Disaster Response and Recovery Resources webpage.
You can also email agr.floodresponse@vermont.gov or call 802-828 5667 if you have specific questions or concerns.
Reporting Losses:
If you have not done so already, please assess damages field by field and crop by crop. If you have questions, reach out to your local Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Office.
University of Vermont Extension has access to a drone to help you document evidence of crop loss & damage. Please contact uas@uvm.edu to access this resource.
- Producers with private crop insurance should call their crop insurance agent to report losses.
- Producers with FSA NAP coverage should reach out to their local FSA Office to report losses.
- Limited Resource, Beginning Farmer, SDA Farmer, Veteran Farmer individuals may have been automatically enrolled in FSA NAP coverage. Please reach out to your local FSA Office to confirm.
- Emergency Livestock Assistance Program (ELAP) – This program may assist with both feed and livestock losses (including bees). Producers can reach out to their local FSA Office for more information.
- Farms without crop insurance can still report losses at their local FSA Office
Info for Vermont Produce Growers:
If you experienced flooding or damage in your produce fields, please visit the Vermont Produce Program webpage for up-to-date Agency guidance. Under U.S. law, crops where the edible portion of the plant has contacted flood water are considered adulterated and cannot be sold for human consumption.
You can also contact the Vermont Produce Program Team with specific questions at AGR.produce@vermont.gov or 802-622-4412.
Guidance for Meat & Poultry Handlers:
Are you a licensed meat and poultry handler, including commercial/custom slaughter and processing, retailer, wholesale distributor, or warehouse?
The Agency has new guidance on re-opening your facility after flooding. If you are a commercial processing facility working under a grant of inspection, please also see 9 CFR § 318.14 Adulteration of product by polluted water; procedure for handling.
Free Resources and Support for Farmers
Farm owners and their family members can access Farm First, a free and confidential business and personal service providing technical, legal, financial, and mental health services to those in need.
Access services by visiting farmfirst.org or calling 1-877-493-6216.