Executive Calvin Ball steps in, announcing a new round of financial aid for the agricultural community. To counteract the harsh effects of drought and extreme heat, applications are now open for the Drought Relief Grants, managed by the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA). Ball, emphasizing the vitality of agriculture to the local economy, points to these grants as a lifeline, stating, "Our farms and rural heritage are essential elements of the economy and quality of life," according to Howard County's official announcement.
With a climate report marking this past summer's temperatures in Howard County as historically high, local farms suffered significantly – a scenario that Fenby Moore of Larriland Farm underscored. According to the county's official announcement, Moore recounted, "the heat and drought cost our farm more than $125,000 in lost income and unforeseen expenses combined." Simultaneously, Howie Feaga of Merry Acres Farm lamented the drought-induced weed infestation, leading to an uptick in labor not typical for the season, revealing probable financial setbacks amounting to $10,000 to $15,000.
As Howard County grapples with these blows to its agricultural sector, the Drought Relief Grants promise up to $30,000 for eligible farms. This endeavor has been met with enthusiasm by Jennifer Jones, CEO of HCEDA, who told Howard County's news release, "This grant program is an investment not only in our agricultural sector but in the resilience of our entire local economy." Grant details, including deadlines and application processes, are detailed on the County's Office of Agriculture website.
In addition to drought relief, Howard County is doubling down with the Enhanced Agricultural Grant (EAG), now flush with $500,000 after its successful pilot last year. These funds spark hope for advancement and sustainability among local farmers. As Alan Sharp of Sharp's at Waterford Farm aptly put it, the EAG was the enabling factor for acquiring a game-changing agrarian drone, shared in the official news release. Applications for this grant, evaluated by the Agricultural Preservation Board, are due by February 28, 2025, with awardees to be announced in early March.
