Some Washington agricultural sectors received COVID-19 relief

YAKIMA, Wa. – The USDA this week extended COVID-19 farm relief to some agricultural sectors, while denying it to others.

Washington hop and wheat farmers were among those who were denied.

Hop Growers of Washington Executive Director Ann George told the Capital Press the industry has had significant losses due to fewer acres planted under contract, and not the 5% price decline the USDA has set as a standard for relief.

The expanded list for relief now includes sheep, nursery crops and cut flowers, and pumpkins, among many other specialty crops.