U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins met with agricultural leaders at Cooperative Producers Inc. in Felda, Florida, to announce further U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) assistance. The session involved disclosing a block grant agreement with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), aimed at aiding recovery from Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene, and Milton.
The agreement entails FDACS receiving $675.9 million to manage a program addressing infrastructure, citrus, and timber losses alongside direct market impacts. This funding forms part of the $30 billion disaster assistance under the 2025 American Relief Act. USDA's approach includes working with 14 states, starting with Florida, for tailored recovery strategies.
Rollins acknowledged the challenges within the citrus sector, stating, "Whatever USDA can do, whether bringing in more funding, more research, more partnership, or just elevating the issue, I am here to be the greatest defender and advocate of that effort."
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson expressed gratitude, noting the impact of back-to-back hurricane seasons. The support is designed for eligible producers in designated disaster areas, who are U.S. citizens or legal entities involved in affected commodities.
FDACS will manage disbursements through USDA's Farm Service Agency, following USDA's approval of its work plan. Details on eligibility, application procedures, and timelines will be forthcoming from FDACS.
Dan Richey, president of Riverfront Packing Company, highlighted Rollins's engagement, remarking, "She gets it. I see the commitment to growers."
Source: Citrus Industry
