USDA offers disaster assistance for Oregon producers amid wildfires and drought

The USDA has announced disaster assistance for agricultural producers in Oregon facing ongoing drought and wildfire conditions. Available support includes the Tree Assistance Program for replanting damaged orchards and nursery stock, as well as emergency and operating loans through the Farm Service Agency to help recover from production and physical losses.

Additional programs include the Emergency Conservation Program for debris removal and fence repair, and the Emergency Forest Restoration Program for private forest landowners. For livestock producers, the Livestock Forage Disaster Program provides assistance for grazing losses caused by drought or fire.

In the Columbia Basin, wildfire smoke is impacting crop health by altering environmental conditions. Researchers from Washington State University report that thick smoke has reduced UV light and increased humidity in some regions. This combination has led to increased disease pressure, such as Downy Mildew in onion crops. Experts advise growers to adjust irrigation practices as evapotranspiration rates decrease when temperatures remain below 100 degrees Fahrenheit.