The flooding in our area caused a tremendous amount of damage to our farms and fields. Thankfully there are many different programs that can help pay for damages that have occurred. Below is a list that compiles these programs.
In addition to the resources listed below, the Washington State Dairy Federation started a fund dedicated to the flooding in Western Washington for our dairy producers. They are open and willing to consider ways to help distressed dairy farmers with any additional needs. Please contact Fred Likkel at (360) 815-4361 for more information.
Regional Flood Support Webpage:
www.extension.wsu.edu/wam/2021-flood-support-page
FEMA Assistance
(800) 621-3362
On January 6th, 2022, the federal government approved Washington’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration. Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621- 3362.
Emergency Manure Transfer Cost-Share
Administered through Whatcom Conservation District
(360) 526-2387
Whatcom Conservation District has partnered with WA State Conservation Commission, WA Dept. of Ecology, WA Dept. of Health, and Whatcom County to fund cost-share for producers who have manure storage at risk of exceeding capacity from excess rainwater collection. Producers must enter into a cost-share agreement with Whatcom CD BEFORE manure is moved in order to be eligible for reimbursement. Projects are ranked and funded based on need and potential to pollute streams or rivers. To request assistance please call or text Dakota Stranik at 360-526-2387 or send an email to dstranik@whatcomcd.org
Farm Service Agency
(360) 592-6115
The following programs will become available after a Presidential or Secretarial Declaration of emergency, and can be up to 8 month retroactive to the date of the flood. Guidance is to call FSA to get on the list, but also document everything right now.
ECP: helps pay for fence replacement, removing debris from fields, re-seeding damaged fields, & emergency loans. Minimum $5 in costs. Dirt work must be completed after sign up. Signup starts January 10th and will be open for 60 days.
TAP: help cover costs of plants (trees, berries) that die from flooding. Pays cost share on purchasing and replanting of new plants.
ELAP: helps with feed loss. Producers have to provide a way to document what they normally feed as well as the increased costs and/or how much was lost.
WHIP: helps with crop loss or production loss due to weather damage.
Whatcom County Assessor
www.whatcomcounty.us//CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2977
Property damaged by flooding may qualify for a reduction in assessed value. The completed Destroyed Property Claim form should be returned to the Assessor’s office.
