State approves $35 million for flooded farmers

COLUMBIA -- More than 1,250 farmers affected from last October’s historic flooding have received $35.5 million in grants, according to the state Department of Agriculture on Thursday.

Eligible farmers could receive grants covering 20 percent of their verified crop loss up to $100,000 maximum. Only 88 applicants received the maximum while the awards averaged $28,364, a news release said.

Grants can only cover production costs, such as seed and fertilizer, not debt or new equipment.

State lawmakers approved a $40 million relief package this spring after torrential rains flooded fields at the height of the 2015 harvest season. Lawmakers overturned a veto by Gov. Nikki Haley who called the aid a taxpayer funded bailout.

Read more: http://www.postandcourier.com/20160915/160919592/state-approves-35-million-for-flooded-farmers