UF/IFAS Requests Survey Input from Producers Hit by Recent Freeze Events

GAINESVILLE – UF/IFAS is asking Florida agricultural producers impacted by recent freeze events, including Winter Storm Gianna, to complete a new survey documenting crop, livestock and infrastructure losses across the state.

Florida experienced multiple low-temperature and freeze events between late December 2025 and early February 2026. Producers who suffered damage during any of those cold-weather episodes are encouraged to participate, even if their operations were affected more than once.

The survey is part of ongoing UF/IFAS research tracking how severe weather and other hazards affect Florida’s agricultural industry. Participants are asked to assess both production losses and asset damages linked to recent freeze events.

Researchers said they are looking for information about the cumulative impacts of all freeze events that affected operations during the late December through early February period. Responses will help improve estimates of statewide agricultural losses and support decision-making related to disaster declaration, response and relief efforts.

The request is especially relevant for growers and agricultural operations in North Central Florida, including Alachua County and surrounding rural communities, where winter cold snaps can damage crops, livestock systems and farm infrastructure.

UF/IFAS noted that while survey results can help inform officials, the data are not formally used to determine disaster designations or individual eligibility for assistance. Producers are still urged to report losses and damages directly to the USDA Farm Service Agency.

Agricultural producers can complete the survey online at go.ufl.edu/Winter26FreezeAgImpacts. They may also contact their local UF/IFAS Extension office to ask about in-person or phone assessments through the directory at directory.ifas.ufl.edu.

Survey participation is expected to take between 10 and 20 minutes, and responses will remain confidential.

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