As a reminder, Nebraska’s Farm Service Agency provides assistance via the LIvestock Indemnity Program Fact Sheet to livestock producers who incur higher than normal mortality due to adverse weather events, including extreme heat.

The criteria for extreme heat for Nebraska requires a minimum of two consecutive days where the Temperature Humidity Index (THI) has reached an index score of 79 for at least one hour each day. The THI score indicates a “danger” level where death loss could be expected even with appropriate management actions and decisions.  (Information on the Temperature Humidity Index can be found here.)

Applicants must first file a notice of loss with FSA, the earlier of 30 calendar days of when the loss of livestock was apparent or 30 calendar days after the end of the calendar year in which the loss of livestock occurred. Livestock that dies within 60 days of the qualifying event may be considered eligible for loss benefits.

After filing a notice of loss, producers can file an application for payment. The application for payment must be filed no later than 30 calendar days after the end of the calendar year in which the loss of the livestock occurred. Supporting documentation is required for both normal mortality and adverse weather losses.  More information about the type of supporting documentation is provided here by the Nebraska FSA.

If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact us or your local FSA service center.