Florida farmers who have had crops, dairy and livestock go to waste during the pandemic are eligible for federal relief, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Tuesday. The USDA will administer $16 billion in Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) funding to help American farmers, said Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Nikki Fried. Fried’s office estimated that farmers in Florida sustained more than $522 million in crop losses alone through mid-April because their biggest buyers – restaurants, schools, theme parks – were closed to resist the spread of coronavirus, leaving them with more produce than they could sell. Fried said competition from foreign imports also depressed prices and demand for Florida produce. The crops estimate does not include livestock, dairy and citrus. Many farmers donated excess products to area food banks, according to numerous agriculture reports this spring. “This USDA support is an important first step in helping American farmers recover from significant COVID-19 losses,” Fried said in a press statement. “As applications open today, I’m urging Florida’s farmers and ranchers to apply immediately, as these funds are limited and may be depleted quickly. Agricultural producers should contact their county Farm Service Agency office today and begin the application process.” Fried has been urging farmers for weeks to prepare loss reports in advance and apply for relief immediately, before the funds are depleted. The deadline is Aug. 28. Qualified farmers are eligible for up to $250,000 in CFAP payment; corporate entities may qualify for up to $750,000. Among the losses cited by Fried’s office: $133 million worth of fresh tomatoes, $95 million worth of watermelons, $45-50 million worth of blueberries, $40-50 million worth of green beans, and $38 million worth of cucumbers, to name a few. Source - https://www.floridaphoenix.com