The deadline for agricultural producers to apply for financial assistance to address damages from Hurricane Ian has been extended to May 22, 2023.

Hillsborough ranks among the 28 Florida counties eligible for the signup extension, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in a March 27 bulletin. Neary counties approved for the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) sign-up are Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, Polk and Sarasota.

Rounding out the list are Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hendry, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie and Volusia counties.

Hurricane-impacted producers must apply for assistance and receive written approval prior to the start of restoration work. The release stresses that any work initiated prior to written approval may not qualify for ECP assistance.

Approved ECP practices under authorization for Hurricane Ian recovery include removing debris from farmland; grading, shaping, releveling or similar measures; replacing or repairing permanent fences; and restoring conservation structures and other installations.

For more information and contact information, the link below is to the USDA Hurricane Ian ECP deadline extension bulletin.