Rhode Island Farmers to Receive Direct Support Following Blizzard Hernando

Rhode Island farmers impacted by the recent Blizzard Hernando will have the opportunity to connect directly with federal and state agencies to discuss recovery options. The Rhode Island Farm Bureau, in collaboration with the Rhode Island Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment, is facilitating a Zoom call next week to provide producers with access to critical resources and support.

Blizzard Hernando’s Impact on Rhode Island Agriculture

Blizzard Hernando caused significant disruption and damage to farms across Rhode Island. The Rhode Island Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment is actively assessing the extent of the impact, and state and federal assistance programs are being evaluated to provide relief to affected producers. Accurate reporting of damages is crucial for securing necessary aid.

Upcoming Zoom Meeting with USDA and State Agencies

A Zoom meeting has been scheduled for Friday, March 6th at 11:00 AM to allow producers to speak directly with representatives from the following agencies:

• USDA Farm Services Agency (FSA)
• Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
• Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM)
• RI Commerce
• Rhode Island Farm Bureau

The meeting will focus on response and recovery options available to farmers. Details on how to join the meeting, including the Zoom link and passcode (995924), will be announced shortly.

Reporting Farm Damage

Farmers are urged to document and report any damage or operational disruptions caused by the blizzard. The Rhode Island Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment has created a Farm Damage Survey to gather information on the scope and severity of the impacts. Completing this survey will help inform potential state or federal disaster discussions and identify immediate support needs.

Documenting Damages

Producers are encouraged to thoroughly document all impacts and damages, including:

• Photos and videos
• Insurance documentation
• Repair estimates, invoices, or receipts
• Records of crop or livestock losses

Detailed records may be required for relief programs.

Resources and Contact Information

• Rhode Island Farm Bureau: https://rifb.org/
• USDA Farm Service Agency (Rhode Island): https://www.fsa.usda.gov/state-offices/rhode-island (60 Quaker Ln. Suite 62, Warwick, RI 02886, +1 401-828-3120)
• DEM: DEM.Agriculture@dem.ri.gov
• Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): Contact information available through the Rhode Island Farm Bureau or the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.

USDA Assistance Programs

The USDA has announced several assistance programs for farmers, including:

• Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) – Application deadline: April 30, 2026
• Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Impacted by Unfair Market Disruptions USDA Announcement
• Emergency Livestock Relief Program payments for 2023 and 2024 drought, flood, and wildfire losses.

Farmers are encouraged to explore these programs and determine their eligibility for assistance.