Assistance for livestock producers who have suffered losses from the recent winter storms is available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency.
“As we dig out from the storm, many farmers and ranchers are just now realizing how big their losses are,” said Pat Boone, New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association (NMCGA) President, Elida. “It has been a while since New Mexico had a snowstorm like this one, but it is important for producers to realize that there is help available.”
USDA’s Farm Service Agency has offices in almost every county in New Mexico, and has several programs, like the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP), Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised fish program (ELAP), the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) and more that were set up to help agricultural producers recover from disasters – including severe weather.
The sooner ranchers contact the FSA, the better Boone noted. Application deadlines vary, depending on the program and whether the losses occurred in 2015 or 2016, and documentation is critical. “I would encourage affected producers to contact their county FSA offices as soon as possible to find out more.” Information is also available at www.disaster.fsa.usda.gov.
The NMCGA has represented the beef industry in New Mexico and the West since 1914 and has members in all 33 of the state’s counties as well as some 14 other states. The Association participates in venues necessary to protect beef producers and private property rights including litigation, state and federal legislation and regulatory affairs. You can visit or join the NMCGA online atwww.nmagriculture.org.