Emergency Livestock Relief Program Offers Help After Disasters

Relief Helps Farmers Facing Flood and Wildfire Feed Costs

The United States Department of Agriculture announces a new plan to help livestock farmers hurt by floods and wildfires during 2023 and 2024. The Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP 2023 and 2024 FW) will provide about one billion dollars to offset the higher cost of feed after disasters.

Livestock producers can sign up starting September 15 and have until October 31, 2025, to apply for help. The program offers up to 60 percent of one month of feed costs for wildfire damage or three months for flood losses.

Farmers in counties approved by the Farm Service Agency do not need to submit disaster proof. Those outside the approved list must show that a qualifying flood or wildfire took place where their animals were kept.

Covered animals include beef and dairy cattle, buffalo, bison, goats, sheep, alpacas, deer, elk, horses, and other eligible livestock. Assistance applies only to land not managed by the federal government and to farmers who have not already reached payment limits from other USDA disaster programs.

Payments are limited to $125,000 for each program year. Producers may request an increase to $250,000 by submitting the proper FSA form. This relief is part of the larger American Relief Act 2025 efforts to support agriculture.

The USDA stresses the importance of helping farmers stay in business and continue supplying food. Farmers can visit fsa.usda.gov or their local FSA office to check eligible counties, view program details, and apply for assistance. This support aims to protect rural communities, stabilize food supplies, and strengthen the future of American farming.