We are now getting some data on how Helene and other disasters have affected South Carolina agriculture. Tell us about it, Commissioner.

Agriculture

Here are the initial damage projections using data and calculations from Clemson Extension:

Loss Category	Drought & Other	Debbie	Helene	Total
Crop & Livestock	$31,335,370	$133,220,315	$65,358,490	$229,914,175
Infrastructure (including Fencing)	$0	$4,721,210	$193,062,288	$197,783,497
			Total	$427,697,672

Timber

$46 million in damage overall

In general that’s characterized as light damage, but quite a lot of variability. For some, it was “catastrophic.”

We had a listening call on Tuesday to give farmers information about resources and hear from them about

247 people called in.

In addition to Clemson Extension and Forestry, we heard from FSA, NRCS, and RMA; representatives from the crop insurance world; farm lending, and SC Farm Bureau.

We have also set up an email: [email protected].

Will continue working to connect people to resources, and stay in touch with our leaders in Washington.