USDA Announces Aid for Livestock Producers Impacted by Wildfire, Drought

USDA is set to provide $1 billion in aid payments to livestock producers affected by drought or wildfire in 2023 and 2024. The Farm Service Agency (FSA) will leverage existing Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) data to streamline payment calculations and issuance. 

“The Department of Agriculture is stepping up to support livestock producers by expediting disaster payments when drought and wildfires strike. Under President Trump’s leadership, USDA has the backs of ranchers, and that’s why we are delivering much-needed emergency relief ahead of schedule,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, in a news release.

Relief payments will be automatically issued to producers who have approved LFP applications on file. Funds are provided by the American Relief Act, 2025. Due to anticipated high demand, payments will be factored at 35%, with potential for a second payment if additional funds remain. 

This program is the first of two planned Emergency Livestock Relief Programs. The second, offering assistance to producers affected by flooding, is set to be announced later this summer. 

“Cattlemen and cattlewomen across the country have faced heartbreaking losses from drought and wildfires. We are so grateful that Secretary Rollins understands the devastation caused by these natural disasters and is working to make cattle producers whole again,” said Buck Wehrbein, president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, in a news release. “We appreciate USDA standing with farmers and ranchers, and being invested in their success.”