(WNY News Now) – Cornell Cooperative Extension urges farmers to report storm-related damage to unlock essential resources and aid.

In the wake of recent severe storms, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) calls on farmers across the region to document and report any damage from flooding, wind, or other natural disasters. Effective reporting is crucial for obtaining the support and resources necessary to recover.

Farmers are advised to document and share all impacts of the weather on their properties. This includes structural damage, crop loss, inventory damage due to power outages, and harm to equipment or fencing. Comprehensive documentation increases the chances of securing a disaster declaration, which can provide critical emergency assistance and raise awareness.

Steps to Report Weather-Related Impacts:

1. Ensure Safety: Verify that all individuals and animals on the farm are safe. Address any immediate hazards caused by the storm. In case of an emergency, call 911 immediately.
2. Document Damage: Record all negative impacts, estimating the financial cost of each. Take photographs and keep detailed records in a secure place.
3. Contact Insurance Providers: Initiate claims with relevant insurance providers (farm, vehicle, crop, etc.) to begin the recovery process.
4. Reach Out for Support: Share the documented damage with one or more of the following agencies:
   • Cornell Cooperative Extension Offices:
     • Allegany County: 585-268-7644
     • Cattaraugus County: 716-699-2377
     • Chautauqua County: 716-664-9502
     • Erie County: 716-652-5400
     • Steuben County: 607-664-2301
   • SWNY Dairy, Livestock, and Field Crops Team:
     • Katelyn Walley: 716-640-0522
     • Amy Barkley: 716-640-0844
     • Katelyn Miller: 716-640-2047
     • Kelly Bourne: 585-268-7644 ext. 10
   • County USDA/FSA Service Centers:
     • Allegany: 585-268-5133
     • Cattaraugus: 716-699-2375
     • Chautauqua: 716-664-2351
     • Erie: 716-652-1400
     • Steuben: 607-776-7398
   • County Farm Bureau Managers:
     • Region 1: Tim Bigham: 716-474-6585

CCE, a recognized leader in agricultural support and education, emphasizes the importance of reporting to facilitate the necessary aid and recovery efforts.

For further assistance, contact your county’s Association Executive Director:

• Allegany County: Laura Hunsberger, lkh47@cornell.edu or 585-268-7644
• Cattaraugus County: Kelly McDonald, kmm525@cornell.edu or 716-699-2377
• Chautauqua County: Emily Reynolds, eck47@cornell.edu or 716-664-9502
• Erie County: Diane Held, dbh24@cornell.edu or 716-652-5400
• Steuben County: Tess McKinley, tsm223@cornell.edu or 607-664-2301