Early this summer, the Flemish Government recognized the drought damage from March 1 to August 31, 2022, as a disaster. If you, as a farmer, have suffered damage as a result of this drought, you can claim compensation from the Flemish Disaster Fund, in addition to compensation via the broad weather insurance. If you meet the conditions, don't forget to submit your application before Sept. 30.
From March 1, 2022 to August 31, 2022, Flanders had to contend with an extreme drought that caused a lot of farmers to suffer crop damage. An investigation into its recognition as a natural disaster was therefore initiated. Early this summer, the Flemish Government confirmed that the drought of 2022 qualifies as a disaster. Good news for you as a farmer, because this means that in addition to the intervention of your broad weather insurance, you can also claim compensation from the Flemish Disaster Fund. This can still be applied for until Sept. 30.
What conditions must be met?
To be eligible for an allowance from the Flemish Disaster Fund, the following conditions must be met:
- There was crop damage due to the 2022 drought in 1 of the approved municipalities (For a list of the municipalities see here.)
- You incurred at least 30% damage for a given crop and the total damage exceeds 500 euros.
- You have purchased broad weather insurance for at least 25% of your crops.
You can claim compensation from the Flemish Disaster Fund, regardless of whether it is an insured or uninsured crop. Moreover, it is of no importance whether or not you already reported the damage last year.
How to apply.
A claim for compensation can be submitted online through the e-desk of Flemish Disaster Fund. The following documents will have to be additionally charged to prove the damage, for example: PV of appraisal committee, expert report, photos, attestation insurer, etc. More information about the procedure to follow can be found at here retrieved. If you have any questions regarding this application, please contact your customer manager.
