The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has announced virtual public training sessions to help applicants with the new Virginia Farm Recovery Block Grant program. The initiative is aimed at farmers and timber landowners who experienced damage or commodity loss as a result of Hurricane Helene.
Two online training sessions have been scheduled, with additional dates to be posted on the VDACS website as they become available. Those interested in participating can find more information and join a session by visiting www.vdacs.virginia.gov/about-farm-recovery-block-grant.shtml. Recordings of previous sessions will also be made available for those unable to attend live.
According to VDACS, “The training sessions will provide an overview of the program, how to create and register an account on the online portal, and how to apply for the Virginia Farm Recovery Block Grant.” The grant is intended to support agricultural and forestry landowners in 27 designated localities across Virginia whose losses from Hurricane Helene are not covered by other federal disaster assistance programs.
VDACS is working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to finalize details of the grant program and develop an online application portal. Once USDA approval is received, registration and application dates will be announced publicly.
Applicants are encouraged to begin gathering necessary documentation ahead of time. As part of eligibility requirements, some producers must agree to obtain and maintain USDA Risk Management coverage for two crop years if their claims relate to market loss, future economic loss, plasticulture, or aquaculture.
Further information about program specifics, eligibility requirements, or general inquiries can be found at www.vdacs.virginia.gov/about-farm-recovery-block-grant.shtml.
