After the Storms: Resources for Wisconsin Farm Families - Spring 2026
- farmerangelnetwork
- 3 minutes ago
- 3 min read
When storms hit again and again, the damage isn’t just physical — it’s emotional, financial, and deeply personal.
After three rounds of tornadoes, hail, straight‑line winds, and flooding across Wisconsin, many farm families are facing incredibly hard days. At Farmer Angel Network (FAN), we want you to hear this clearly: you are not alone, and help is available.
Below is a farmer‑first summary of key steps and recovery resources from trusted state and federal sources. Take what’s useful, share it with a neighbor, and move one step at a time.
Start With Safety, Documentation, and Protecting Yourself
After major storms, it’s natural to want repairs done immediately. Wisconsin agencies strongly encourage slowing down just enough to protect yourself financially.
Do this as soon as you can:
Take dated photos and videos of all damage — buildings, fences, livestock areas, vehicles, equipment, and fields.
Notify your insurance company or agent right away to start the claims process.
Keep damaged items and samples (like shingles or siding) until your adjuster says otherwise.
Save all estimates, contracts, receipts, and written communications.
Strong documentation protects both insurance claims and eligibility for disaster assistance.
Report Damage — It Truly Makes a Difference
Reporting damage helps unlock resources not just for individual farms, but for entire rural communities. More resources are available once/if disaster designations have been put in place.
Report damage to 2-1-1 Wisconsin (by phone or online) — even if you’ve already contacted USDA.
2‑1‑1 tracks housing, food, healthcare, and disaster‑related needs
USDA tracks agricultural losses
These systems do not share information
Damage reports help determine whether additional state or federal disaster assistance becomes available.
Call Your Local USDA / FSA Office Before Making Non-Emergent Repairs
USDA programs may help with recovery from tornadoes, flooding, hail, and extreme winds.
The Emergency Conservation Program helps farms restore land and conservation structures damaged by disasters, and may help with:
Debris removal from cropland or pasture
Gully repair and land leveling
Livestock fencing repair or replacement
Conservation structures like waterways and terraces
Important: Contact your local FSA office as soon as possible — especially before starting non-emergency repairs. Find the number for your county here.
Other USDA Disaster Programs to Ask About
Depending on the type of damage you experienced, additional programs may apply:
Assistance for livestock deaths or reduced-value livestock sales
Help for lost forage or grazing losses
Support for uninsured or uninsurable crops
Tree and orchard replacement for disaster-related losses
Emergency or operating loans to help stabilize your operation
Each program has specific requirements, so your local USDA Service Center is the best starting point.
Watch out for storm‑related scams
After disasters, fraudulent repair crews often move quickly through affected areas.
Avoid door‑to‑door repair crews (“storm chasers”).
Use established, local contractors whenever possible.
Get a written contract that clearly outlines work, materials, timeline, and warranties.
Never pay the full cost upfront.
Always request lien waivers with payments.
These steps can prevent costly problems and protect your recovery.
Ask for Help — Emotional and Financial Support Matters, Too
Recovery isn’t just about fields and buildings. The emotional load can be heavy, especially after repeated storms.
DATCP Farm Center Hotline (1-800-942-2474): Free, confidential support for farmers dealing with financial or emotional stress.
Disaster Distress Hotline (1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746): 24/7 support for individuals and families coping with disaster-related stress.
Reaching out is not giving up — it’s taking care of yourself so you can keep going.
A Note From FAN
At FAN, we know farms don’t pause after disasters. Animals still need care. Crops still demand attention. Families still show up—even when they’re worn thin.
Asking for help, using available programs, and leaning on your community isn’t weakness. It’s how we get through hard seasons together.
If this article helps, please share it. And if you’re struggling—practically or emotionally—reach out. No farmer should have to weather the storm alone.
Request assistance at https://www.farmerangelnetwork.com/assistance.