Flood recovery continues for East Tennessee farmers a year after Hurricane Helene

Experts estimate the flooding from Hurricane Helene caused more than $1.3 billion in damage to Tennessee agriculture.

It’s been a year since Tropical Storm Helene caused heavy flooding in Upper East Tennessee. The impact on farming could be measured for the next decade.

University economists are also working with producers to recover financially. Experts estimate the flooding caused more than $1.3 billion in damage to Tennessee agriculture.

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA) is working with farmers as they restore their land and soil. UTIA Reporter Charles Denney shows us how they’re stabilizing land along riverbanks so that crops can grow again.

Related Stories
Luke McCrea says his experiences in FFA and 4-H helped shape both his leadership skills and future career goals.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses SDRP payment limits and offers advice for those seeking higher limits.
Lawmakers advance FY27 agriculture funding bill, highlighting support for rural development, school lunches, disease response, and water issues.
Waylon NeSmith says continuing the operation is a way to carry on the lessons and legacy his father left behind.
Researchers say stronger rootstocks are helping growers fight citrus greening.
Culver’s is holding its annual “Scoops of Thanks Day” event, offering a scoop of frozen custard in exchange for a $1 donation supporting agricultural education.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Demand for farm loans surged in the first quarter of the year, topping the previous record set in 2016.
Congress is seeking insight from meteorologists and weather researchers on how new technology can enhance safety and response times to severe weather and prevent future disasters.
Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer says the labor program will now be fully under her department, and consolidation will make the program more affordable and efficient for farmers and ranchers.
FarmHER Kait Thornton joined us on Thursday on the Market Day Report to talk about the podcast episode, her family orchard’s 100th anniversary + more!
Tennessee FarmHER Bridget Bryant’s porch garden evolves into a sprawling community outreach project that provides fresh produce to those in need and teaches urban kids how to grow their own food.
“We’re living in a moment of massive change—in agriculture, in media, and in leadership . . .”