In response to a series of extreme weather events in 2023, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced a significant relief initiative for Massachusetts farmers. Recently, Governor Healey also announced a $4.1 Million investment in mental health support for Massachusetts youth.
Disastrous Weather Events Impacted Massachusetts Farmers
Throughout 2023, Massachusetts farms faced severe weather-related challenges. In February, an arctic freeze devastated the stone fruit crop, particularly affecting peaches and plums. Consequently, in May, frost events resulted in significant damage to fruit crops, including apples, pears, and grapes. Meanwhile, July witnessed catastrophic flooding in Western and Central Massachusetts, affecting over 2,700 acres of crops across 110 farms.
Statements from Officials
“The climate crisis is here and farmers are bearing the brunt of extreme weather. With the heavy losses that our farmers have recently suffered, it is critical for us to support their recovery efforts,” Governor Maura Healey expressed. “These funds will help ensure our farms have the resources to salvage a difficult year and come back stronger than before. We’re grateful to the Legislature for making these funds available to support our hardworking farmers.”
Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll emphasized the integral role farms play, stating, “A strong agricultural sector ensures job security, environmental resilience, and a robust local food system. It’s essential that our affected farmers receive the aid they need in order to ensure their future production capacity won’t be diminished by the recent natural disasters.”
Highlighting the year’s challenges, Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper said, “As evidenced by this year’s extreme weather events, climate change has caused overwhelming damage to our agricultural production in Massachusetts.”
Massachusetts Farmers Fund Eligibility and Application
To qualify for funding, farms must be commercial operations selling to wholesale or direct consumer markets. Additionally, they should have suffered a minimum of 15% acreage crop loss from one or more of the 2023 natural disasters.
Applications are open now and must be submitted through the designated online form by 4:00 PM on Friday, September 29, 2023. The application form is available here.
Reactions from Other Leaders
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner Ashley Randle acknowledged the challenges, asserting, ““It’s been such a difficult year for our farming community but we know that in the face of adversity, our farmers remain steadfast and resilient…”
Senate President Karen E. Spilka emphasized the Senate’s proactive approach and gratitude to various departments for the administration of the funding.
House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano urged affected farmers to apply and expressed gratitude towards the Healey-Driscoll Administration.
Echoing the sentiment, Senate Committee on Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues expressed relief over the allocation of $20 million in emergency relief funding.
State Representative Natalie M. Blais highlighted the importance of direct payments to farmers, ensuring their continued contributions to the local economy and food system.
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