Programs Available To Help Ranchers Impacted By Wildfires

Farmers and Ranchers that suffered losses this season due to wildfires may receive financial assistance from the Farm Service Agency.  Washington State FSA President Judy Olson says the funds are available through the Emergency Livestock Assistance Program, better known as ELAP.  She said pasture land does not need to be a total loss for a rancher to be eligible.

“Say only a quarter of their pasture burned, they just report what actually burned.  And if they can document they’ve either had cows on it, or it was part of their rotation, etc., it is eligible pasture land.  They can receive a benefit on that portion.”

The funds are available to compensate for a percentage of rangeland lost pm private property.  Olson said requests must be submitted to FSA within 30 days of the fire.  To learn more, contact your local FSA office, or visit the FSA's Website.

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