USDA Harvest Fuel Relief Program to Include Fishermen

In October, the Trump Administration announced a one-time $8 billion in funding for the USDA’s Harvest Fuel Relief Program. Designed to offset soaring diesel and input costs during the 2026 production year, the program provides financial assistance based on estimated losses to farmers and, for the first time, to fishermen.

This is the first time commercial fishermen have been included in a USDA fuel relief program. Island Institute photo.

The USDA is gathering information from the fishing industry to develop a process to provide relief payments to fishermen. 

Farmers grow products, such as soybeans or corn, called Title 1 commodities. Fishermen harvest non-Title 1 commodities. The USDA needs information from fishermen to develop payment rates for their portion of the program.

All lobstermen are strongly encouraged to submit information documenting the specific financial impacts they have suffered due to high fuel costs. That information can include:

• Increased Fuel Costs: Direct expense spikes for fuel on your vessel or business operations.

• Reduced Effort and Landings: Decreased landings resulting from shorter trips or fewer days on the water.

• Supply Chain and Transit Expenses: Rising operational costs for transporting goods or gear.

  
  

Because the USDA will use lobstermen’s information to establish baseline eligibility and payment rates, your information should be as specific as possible. Whenever possible, provide direct comparisons between your 2026 operational expenses and prior years.

The USDA is accepting comments and data directly at HarvestFuel@usda.gov. More details are expected in November.