Tree Assistance Program Offers Disaster Relief for Fruit Growers

By Blake Jackson

Fruit growers and nursery operators who suffered losses from natural disasters may be eligible for assistance through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), according to Kari A. Peter, Professor at Penn State Extension.

The program, reauthorized under the 2018 Farm Bill and proposed for expansion in the 2026 Farm Bill, helps offset the costs of replanting or rehabilitating eligible trees, bushes, and vines used in commercial production.

TAP covers a wide range of plantings, including fruit, nut, ornamental, and Christmas trees grown for commercial sale. Many growers have faced significant setbacks over the past year due to excessive rainfall, winter injury, insect infestations, and disease outbreaks, making the program an important source of financial support.

To qualify, growers must demonstrate losses exceeding 15% of a stand, after accounting for normal mortality rates, as a result of an eligible natural disaster.

Losses must be visible to inspectors from the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) or supported by acceptable evidence if no longer visible. In some cases, expert evaluations may be required to verify damage caused by insects or disease.

Approved participants must replace damaged trees, bushes, or vines within 12 months of receiving approval. TAP can reimburse 65% of replanting costs and 50% of rehabilitation expenses when losses exceed the eligibility threshold.

The program is available to individuals or entities with an average adjusted gross income below $900,000. Current rules also allow coverage of up to 1,000 acres per program year.

Growers should submit claims within 60 days of a declared disaster or within 90 days after damage becomes apparent.

In addition to TAP updates, Penn State Extension is urging orchard managers to remain vigilant against fire blight following severe disease pressure during the 2026 bloom season.

Experts recommend continued scouting, timely pruning, and the use of Prohexadione calcium products such as Kudos or Apogee to slow disease development.

Researchers are also evaluating FungOUT, a citric acid-based bactericide and fungicide, as a potential management tool.

Growers are encouraged to prioritize pruning in younger orchards, avoid excessive cutting, and focus on practices that limit the spread of infection while preserving tree health and productivity.

Photo Credit: istock-rixipix