Federal Farm
Assistance Programs
Need help starting or growing your farm operation? Have you had crop losses from drought or other disasters? Our Connectors are trained to navigate federal programs, paperwork, deadlines and regulations to make sure that farmers and growers are able to access these important opportunities to get loans, cost-share funding and technical support. We can offer language translation services and one-on-one mentorship, as well as personal introductions to federal acronyms, offices and employees.
FSA: Getting started with the federal Farm Service Agency to access loans for land and facilities purchases
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a branch
of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
that serves America’s farmers by providing credit to producers who are unable to access private commercial credit. FSA provides producers with a strong safety net through farm commodity and disaster programs. FSA’s long- standing tradition of conserving the nation’s natural resources continues through the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).
Quick Tips to Get Started with FSA
NRCS: Getting started with the federal Natural Resources Conservation Service to access funding and technical support for hoop houses, irrigation, fencing and other crop investments
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a branch of the U. S. Department of Agriculture that works with farmers to keep America's soil and water healthy. Through voluntary conservation programs, NRCS helps producers, soil and water conservation districts, and other partners protect and conserve natural resources on private lands throughout the United States. NRCS offers technical support and cost-share funding for hoop houses, livestock fencing, irrigation, and livestock water lines that help conserve soil and water resources.
Read about Urban Agriculture and Specialty Crop Grants and Programs.
ERP and PARP: Getting started with Disaster Assistance through the Emergency Relief and Pandemic Assistance Revenue Programs
Did a natural disaster like the drought of 2021 or 2020 cause a loss of revenue from farming for you? If so, you may be eligible for support from USDA’s Emergency Relief Program (ERP) or the Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program (PARP). ERP provides financial assistance to vegetable growers and others for losses caused, at least in part, by a qualifying natural disaster event. Connectors can help growers to sign up for crop insurance and to improve record-keeping systems so they are prepared to apply for disaster revenue.
Click to reach a Disaster Assistance Connector.
USDA: Getting to know your United States Department of Agriculture Service Center
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There is a USDA Service Center that serves every county in the nation. There are even new urban service centers in certain cities. The video below is tailored to urban growers, but you can access your service center the same way. Check out the video and then find your service center HERE . Just call and make an appointment to go in and get started.