WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Nick Langworthy has successfully secured federal disaster relief from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for grape growers in the Lake Erie Grape Belt, following severe crop losses caused by an unexpected freeze on April 25, 2024.
“Since the April 25th freeze, I’ve been in constant contact with local grape growers and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to ensure we get the necessary support for our farmers who were hit hard by this unexpected weather event,” said Congressman Langworthy. “Securing this disaster relief is a critical step in helping our grape growers recover and continue their vital contributions to our local economy and the Concord grape industry. These devastating circumstances are what led me to introduce the GRAPE ACT, which will provide affordable, comprehensive crop insurance for grape growers, building resilience for the future.”
This relief effort, triggered by a disaster declaration request from New York State, enables farmers in the affected counties to apply for Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans. These loans are essential for helping farm operators recover from the severe freeze that significantly damaged their grape crops. Farmers have eight months from the date of the declaration to apply, with each application assessed individually based on production losses and repayment capabilities.
The USDA’s Secretarial disaster designation extends to primary counties and contiguous counties, offering a crucial lifeline to the region’s grape growers. This relief is part of a broader initiative to support agricultural resilience, underscored by Congressman Langworthy’s introduction of the GRAPE ACT. This act aims to establish affordable, comprehensive crop insurance for grape growers, ensuring they are better protected against future adverse weather events.
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