Storm Washes Away Maine Potato Farms’ Topsoil

U.S. Sens. Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe say the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved a $400,000 emergency grant to 50 Maine potato farmers.

The farmers suffered crop damage during recent storms that in some cases completely washed away topsoil, dramatically reducing yields.

The grants come from the USDA’s Farm Services Agency. The money was provided through the agency’s Emergency Conservation Program.

Potato farming is the backbone of the Aroostook County economy. The senators say the money will help farmers repair damage to their fields and prevent further damage.