In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ernesto, Puerto Rico's agriculture sector has reported losses amounting to $23.5 million, as disclosed by Agriculture Secretary Ramón González. The storm's impact was felt across various segments, with plantains recording the highest losses at $11.5 million. The coffee and vegetable sectors, along with bananas, also experienced considerable damages, amounting to $2.5 million and $2 million respectively. Additional losses were reported in the citrus and fruit sectors ($800,000), hydroponic structures ($1 million), and in roads and preparation costs ($2 million), with forage losses at $1.2 million.
Farmers holding insurance policies for vegetables and pineapples are advised to initiate claims through the Agricultural Insurance Corp. (CSA). Assistance is also available from the USDA's Federal Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP). González emphasized the importance of the agricultural sector to the economy and assured that efforts are underway for its swift recovery. Coordination with the Agricultural Enterprise Development Administration (ADEA) and requests for financial support from Puerto Rico's Office of Management and Budget are in progress to assist insured farmers unable to claim through the CSA. Regional agronomists are conducting farm visits for loss assessments, and insured farmers ineligible for CSA coverage are encouraged to file new claims with their regional offices.
Source: newsismybusiness.com