The Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity today opened up applications for an emergency farm relief program for those impacted by the recent Kona low storms.

Farmers, ranchers, and businesses statewide that experienced losses and damage from the storm can apply for a one-time grant of $1,500 to address immediate needs. They must, however, provide a General Excise Tax license to qualify.

The state has authorized a total of $500,000 for the program from DAB-restricted funds.

“While the full impacts from the Kona Low 1 and Kona Low 2 storms are still being assessed, we know our agricultural producers have been severely impacted by these events,” said Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawaii Board of Agriculture, in a news release. “The Emergency Farmer Relief funding aims to support our agriculture industry with grant money to start recovering from the disaster or providing brief financial stability during this time.”

Gov. Josh Green said in a statement that Hawaii’s farmers are a crucial lifeline for the state’s food security and sustainability efforts.

“As we work to increase our islands’ independence from offshore food imports, we must support the farmers and ranchers who supply healthy and nutritious produce and meats for our local people through grocery stores, schools and restaurants,” said Green in the statement. “This emergency funding for our agriculture communities emphasizes their essential role in our state’s food security and our commitment to aid in their recovery.”

Applicants who complete and submit applications by Friday will be prioritized for funding, the release said. Awards will be announced next week.

The application is available online on DAB’s website at dab.hawaii.gov/emergencyfarmerrelief/.

Applicants with limited internet access can call the Governor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency for help with the applications at 808-586-0034.

Questions? Email dab.efr@hawaii.gov.