Tennessee Farmers Affected by Hurricane Helene Get Second Chance at Aid Through TAEP

The Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP) has extended the deadline for farmers affected by Hurricane Helene to apply for financial aid. For individuals most impacted by the hurricane, the application window, which was initially scheduled for October, has been extended until early December. To assist farmers in making investments and enhancing their farming operations, the TAEP program provides cost-share payments.

This second opportunity is only available to farmers who work in a limited number of counties listed in Governor Bill Lee’s Expedited Major Disaster Declaration, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture announced. For farmers in Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi, and Washington counties, it takes place from December 2–6.

“At the time, such farmers had to prioritize the urgent needs of their communities and families. In a statement obtained by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M., stated, “We are happy to give them another opportunity to participate in TAEP.” No more action is required of farmers who applied in October.

The TAEP has helped Tennessee farmers increase their safety, efficiency, and profitability while assisting them in adjusting to shifting market conditions since its inception in 2005. Additionally, the program offers support in a number of industries, such as dairy, cattle, poultry, row crops, and more. The organization’s website has a comprehensive list of qualifying categories. The significance of the program to the agricultural sector is demonstrated by the fact that more than 7,600 farmers from throughout the state sought for assistance during the most recent application session in October. By the end of December, all applicants will get notification regarding the status of their projects’ approval.

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