IMPACT ON PRODUCER FINANCES A large majority of respondents reported that the pandemic had a negative impact on their income (66.7%). 12.1% reported that their income increased as a result of the pandemic and an equal percentage of respondents (12.1%) felt that it had a net neutral effect on their income (i.e., their net income remains roughly the same but comes from new or different sources). 9% reported no impact on their income. Over half of respondents attempted to access COVID-19 relief programs in 2020. The most common program that respondents reported applying for was the Payroll Protection Program (PPP). Others applied to various foundation grants, regional small business grants, the
COVID-19 Food Assistance Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loans, and other loan programs. Most learned of these programs through email listservs, Farm Service Agency or USDA offices, online searches, or personal connections. 73.9% of those who tried to access these programs reported that they received adequate technical assistance to apply to assistance programs and were able to access funds provided through these programs. A little more than half (52.6%), however, felt that the fund amounts were not adequate to meet their needs.
Increased 12%
Neutral 12% PRODUCER INCOME 9% No Effect
67% Decreased
RECOMMENDATIONS
• Continue to support producer access
to COVID-19 relief programs through education and outreach efforts. Increase the amount of aid available for producers through these relief programs.
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