Raleigh -- April 16, 2026: Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler has announced that the final category of the $221 million USDA block grant for Hurricane Helene recovery will begin accepting applications on April 20, 2026.
The Timber Loss Relief Program (TLRP) is specifically designed to assist private landowners who suffered moderate to catastrophic timber damage. This program marks the last of four assistance categories provided through the federal block grant.
Key Program Details
The TLRP is administered by the N.C. Forest Service and targets private landowners within the 39 federally declared disaster counties.
Eligibility: Landowners must have at least 10 contiguous acres of damaged timber.
Coverage: Assists with timber losses not covered by other USDA programs.
Application Opens: April 20, 2026.
Application Deadline: June 12, 2026.
Report Deadline: The associated timber damage assessment report must be submitted by July 10, 2026.
“A significant share of the more than 822,000 acres of damaged timber left behind after Hurricane Helene belongs to private landowners,” said Commissioner Troxler. “While we know TLRP funding will not make these landowners financially whole, we are hopeful it will help with recovery from what was an unprecedented storm.”
How to Apply
To begin the process, landowners should contact their local N.C. Forest Service county ranger’s office. If local staff are unavailable, the district offices overseeing those counties can provide guidance.
Official Program Page: NC Forest Service TLRP
Contact Information: Find Your County Ranger
Application Forms: Available online at the NCDA&CS Disaster Portal
Other Agricultural Categories Still Open
While the timber program is just beginning, the three other agricultural categories announced on March 26 remain open for applications until May 15, 2026. These include:
Farm Infrastructure: Repair and replacement of structures, roads, and bridges.
Future Economic Loss: Assistance for perennial crops, poultry, and aquaculture.
Market Loss: Compensation for commodities and select value-added products.