Florida’s agricultural producers will soon have access to over $600 million in disaster relief funds, according to an announcement by Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson. Starting February 25, 2026, these funds will be available to address damages from the 2023 and 2024 hurricane seasons. Additionally, Simpson has requested federal approval to use Florida’s disaster block grant program for immediate relief following the significant ice storm in 2026.
Eligible producers can apply for grants through the Florida Block Grant Disaster Relief Program to cover infrastructure damage, market loss, citrus loss, and timber damage. “I want to thank President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for their steadfast support for our farmers, ranchers, and producers,” said Simpson. He noted that Florida’s agricultural sector suffered over $3 billion in losses during the recent hurricane seasons.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has created an online hub at FDACS.gov/BlockGrant to help producers prepare by providing eligibility information and documentation requirements. The state is the first in the nation to finalize an agreement with the USDA for this new disaster block grant program. The funding covers about 35% of Florida’s total agricultural losses from those years.
Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis once the application period opens. Producers must submit completed applications by August 25, 2026, or until funds are depleted. The program targets agricultural producers in designated disaster areas who are U.S. citizens or legal entities with affected commodities.
For more details on eligibility and documentation requirements, visit FDACS.gov/BlockGrant.
