As the smoke begins to clear from the largest wildfire in Sonoma County history, we express our sympathy for those who suffered losses and admiration for the first responders who helped protect our community.
The Kincade fire burned more than 77,000 acres, forcing nearly 200,000 residents to evacuate their homes and dealing a blow to the local economy, especially for those in agriculture. Thousands of firefighters battled the blaze, which burned hundreds of buildings and destroyed several vineyard properties in the Alexander Valley and Chalk Hill regions.
“In times like these the agricultural community always steps up to support each other,” said American AgCredit CEO Byron Enix. “It’s heartwarming to see lifelong relationships shine through in times of need and American AgCredit is one of many to offer support to impacted customers and the local agricultural community.”
American AgCredit is working alongside agriculture industry groups to contribute relief funds to support recovery for agricultural producers and our communities.
The Association has committed to contributing $100,000 in total assistance, with $25,000 going to each of the following groups:
- Sonoma County Farm Bureau, whose relief fund is working to provide hay, feed and other livestock supplies to affected farmers.
- Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation, whose fund is providing direct support to local vineyard workers and their families impacted by the fire.
- Redwood Empire Food Bank, who continually work to bring food to those in the community who need it.
- American AgCredit Employee Relief Fund, which supports our employees who were impacted by the fires.
If you would like to join us in supporting the rebuilding and recovery efforts, please click on the links above to contribute.
In addition to these contributions, American AgCredit is making available $50 million in short term interest-free loans for customers impacted by the wildfire and related events. For other producers affected by the fire, we are able to expedite loans through our approval and closing process at market rates.
“Our commitment is to serve agriculture and our local communities,” said Clay Popko, Regional Banking Executive for Northern California. “Perhaps the most significant piece of that is how we support our current customers. Times like these are when that commitment is most important.”
About American AgCredit
Founded in 1916, American AgCredit is part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, and is the nation’s fifth largest Farm Credit cooperative. American AgCredit specializes in providing financial services to agricultural and rural customers throughout California, Nevada, Kansas, Hawaii, Oklahoma, Colorado, and New Mexico—as well as to capital markets customers throughout the country. Learn more at www.AgLoan.com.
