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CUSP Application - ALL ROUNDS ARE NOW CLOSED

 

Eligibility requirements

• Farmers and ranchers who are actively working the land, derive a portion of their income from their own farm business, and are involved in day-to-day operations on the farm are eligible.
• Funding is prioritized for small-scale operations and for underserved (socially disadvantaged) communities as described in CDFA’s Farmer Equity Report.
• Producers may only receive a maximum of $20,000 of CUSP Extreme Weather funding every 12 months. IERCD will cross-check applicants with CDFA to ensure no repeat funds are awarded within that time period.

 

Examples of covered expenses can include but are not limited to:

Download PDF Table here - See eligible expenses and acceptable documentation options:

CUSP Extreme Weather and Other Climate Impacts Relief Eligible Practices Table (UPDATED April 2025)

 

What is defined under "Extreme Weather"?

Extreme weather: unusually severe weather or climate conditions that can cause devastating impacts on communities and agricultural ecosystems, including but not limited to heat waves, freezes, flooding, heavy downpours, wildfires, and severe windstorms.

What qualifies as a small or medium sized operation?

A farm making up to $400,000 in annual gross sales  or dairy operation making up to $1,000,000 in annual gross sales.

What is a socially disadvantaged group?

“Socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher” means a farmer or rancher who is a member of a socially disadvantaged group. “Socially disadvantaged group” means a group whose members have been subjected to racial, ethnic, or gender prejudice because of their identity as members of a group without regard to their individual qualities. These groups include all of the following: (1) African Americans, (2) Native American Indians, (3) Alaskan Natives, (4) Hispanics, (5) Asian Americans, and (6) Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.

Can eligible applicants apply to both a CUSP drought-only program and CUSP extreme weather program within the same year?

Yes, an eligible farmer can apply for up to $20,000 from BOTH a CUSP drought-only program and CUSP extreme weather program within the same year for a maximum of $40,000 as long as the allowable expenses are not duplicative. For example, a farmer can apply for $20,000 for crop loss due to drought from a CUSP drought-only program AND apply for an additional $20,000 for damage to equipment/infrastructure due to wildfire from a CUSP extreme weather program. A farmer can NOT apply for $20,000 for drought related expenses from both programs.

Can farmers outside California apply?

This fund is specifically designed for farms in California only.