USDA’s Tree Assistance Program Deadlines

(BARRIGADA, Guam), June  13, 2023 — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Executive Director Ilene Iriarte for Guam and CNMI counties, today highlighted that orchardists and nursery tree growers who experienced losses from Typhoon Mawar may apply for assistance through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP). Growers have until 90 calendar days after the disaster event or when the loss becomes apparent to submit an application with supporting documentation.

“We want to ensure all eligible growers who experienced losses from Typhoon Mawar get the assistance they need,” said  

TAP provides financial assistance to qualifying orchardists and nursery tree growers to replant or rehabilitate eligible trees, bushes and vines lost due to natural disasters. The loss must be in excess of 15 percent mortality (adjusted for normal mortality).

Nursery trees include ornamental, fruit, nut and Christmas trees produced for commercial sale. Growers must have owned the trees from the time of the disaster until the time that the TAP application is submitted but are not required to own the land on which the trees were planted.

Approved replacement and rehabilitation activities must be completed within 12 months from the date the application is approved.  Bananas and plantains are not eligible for the Tree Assistance Program. 

For FSA disaster assistance, you will likely need to provide documents, such as farm records and pictures of damages or losses. Gathering the documents in advance of your visit with our staff will enable us to expedite delivery of program benefits. New customers should visit our Get Started page to help prepare for their first visit.

For more information about TAP, visit fsa.usda.gov/tap or contact the Guam County FSA office at 671-300-8550/8551. For more information on FSA disaster assistance programs, visit farmers.gov/recover.