Document Storm Damage, Losses FEMA Storm Damage Reporting Rain in Forecast

Storm Damage Updates

The Grower-Shipper Association of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties has been actively engaged with government agencies and elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as our agricultural partner organizations, to assess damage from recent storm events and provide member assistance on next steps. We will send additional information as it becomes available. Currently, Santa Barbara County is soliciting initial damage estimates to attempt to qualify for federal FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) funding. We understand that SLO County will also be requesting similar information next week.

Although it is unclear at this time if disaster funds will become available and what information would be needed to submit an application, we encourage our members to document storm damage (photos, receipts, etc.), crop and equipment losses, etc.. We have been in communication with the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), who traditionally administers disaster-related programs, and will update members if a program becomes available for this storm event or if grower outreach briefings are scheduled.

Additional rain is forecast start to start on Friday, which may prove challenging and warrant additional precautions if soil remains saturated and retention basins are full. Please stay safe and keep us updated on how the storm has impacted you; we will communicate additional information as it becomes available.


Information from SB County Ag Commissioner's Office:
“The County of Santa Barbara is encouraging anyone with property damage or impacts to your agricultural operation to report your estimated costs using the attached Initial Damage Estimate form. Please complete sections titled “Individual Assistance Damages” and “Agricultural Damage”. Email completed forms to the County Office of Emergency Management at EOCFinAd@countyofsb.org as soon as possible. This will help the county meet the threshold dollar amount needed to qualify for FEMA financial assistance for individuals. Contact one of the County Agricultural Commissioner/W&M Department offices if you have questions. A list of our offices can be found here Agricultural Commissioner | Santa Barbara County, CA - Official Website (countyofsb.org).”

CLICK HERE to access the initial damage estimate form for SB County (Word document download)

Please contact Claire claire.wineman@grower-shipper.com or 805.868.8245 for additional information.

Source: Grower Shipper Association of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties