Connecticut opened a $52.9 million disaster relief program for farmers affected by severe weather in 2023 and 2024, with applications closing October 7. The Connecticut Department of Agriculture received the federal allocation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for losses stemming from late frost, historic flooding along the Connecticut River Valley and western Connecticut, hail storms, and drought that damaged crops, infrastructure and equipment on more than 200 farms with estimated combined losses exceeding $72 million.
Farmers can claim up to 95 percent of eligible losses, with a cap of $1 million per year per category. Other compensation from crop insurance or third-party sources will be deducted from awards. To qualify, farmers must have earned at least $1,000 in farm income and have documented losses of at least $500 from weather events in 2023 or 2024.
Payments are expected to begin in mid-October following review and approval. Partner organizations are available to assist farmers with applications through the Farm Recovery and Support Block Grant Program at portal.ct.gov/FRS.
Connecticut's Congressional delegation worked to secure the relief to address gaps in existing crop insurance programs. Governor Ned Lamont said the funding represents the state's commitment to help farms recover and continue operating.