Advocates for Agriculture Announces Plant It Forward South Carolina Relief Fund
South Carolina Department of Agriculture
Hugh E. Weathers, Commissioner
Media Contact: Stephanie Sox, 803-734-1767, ssox@scda.sc.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 16, 2015
Advocates for Agriculture Announces Plant It Forward South Carolina Relief Fund
COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina Advocates for Agriculture, a 501 © 3 organization, announces the establishment of Plant It Forward South Carolina, a private relief fund for South Carolina farmers severely affected by the 2015 flood. The South Carolina Department of Agriculture, Clemson University, South Carolina Farm Bureau Federation and Palmetto Agribusiness Council are program partners.
In October 2015, historical levels of rainfall hit South Carolina. Estimated damage to South Carolina farms is over $376 million, with significant crop loss on peanuts, cotton, soybeans and fall vegetable crops that were ready for harvest.
“Since October’s flood event, the South Carolina Department of Agriculture has heard from countless farmers who are financially devastated and face the very real possibility of never farming again. Plant it Forward SC is a way for all concerned to help support our state’s farmers,” said South Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers.
Thanks to generous support from the Farm Credit system institutions located in South Carolina – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, AgSouth Farm Credit, and Arbor One Farm Credit – along with other agribusinesses, Plant it Forward SC has already raised over $100,000 to aid in farmers’ recovery. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to donate to support their farm neighbors across South Carolina.
Farmers wishing to seek assistance must complete an application and present such information as proof of crop/livestock loss specifically attributed to the 2015 rain event, farm identification number and seed/hay records.
For more information, and to apply or donate, visit www.plantitforwardsc.org. The deadline to apply for assistance is January 31, 2016.
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