The COVID-19 pandemic may be adding to farmers’ financial problems, price and marketing uncertainties, marital difficulties, and social pressures. You can:
- Contact the Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline anytime (call 833-600-2670 or text FARMSTRESS to 898211).
- Visit the Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline website for information and resources.
- Reach out to a of Minnesota Farm Advocate who can offer one-on-one help for many kinds of crises (e.g., operating loan problems, mediation, foreclosure, natural disasters).
The Minnesota Rural Finance Authority (RFA) also helps farmers whose operations are affected by COVID-19. New rules mean farmers can access the Disaster Recovery Loan Program if they they experience loss of revenue due to human contagious disease. Visit the RFA Disaster Loan Recovery Program website or contact 651-201-6004.
Other Resources:
- USDA’s Coronavirus and USDA Assistance for Farmers page that provides easy-to-find information about federal help available to farmers.
- University of Minnesota Extension’s Ag Business Management Team offers information as well as help navigating financial assistance programs (including loan and direct payment programs).
- Farmers Legal Action Group, Inc. (FLAG) has published a A Farmers’ Guide to COVID-19 Relief.
Farmers' Markets, U-Pick Operations, and On-Farm Markets
Refer to industry guidance for food and agriculture businesses on the StaySafe.MN website.
Refer to industry guidance for food and agriculture businesses on the StaySafe.MN website.
Nurseries and Garden Centers
Refer to industry guidance for food and agriculture businesses on the StaySafe.MN website.
Refer to industry guidance for food and agriculture businesses on the StaySafe.MN website.
