Following the cold event in late January and consecutive spring frosts, grape growing regions across the state reported varying levels of vineyard damage. TAP offers a resource for growers assessing impacts and rebuilding productive vineyard acreage.

The TAP process begins with farm certification through the local FSA office. Growers report vineyard acreage and varieties planted as part of this step. Farm certification also generates valuable aggregated data that strengthens understanding of acreage in production across Texas’s diverse growing regions and improves visibility of grape varieties planted statewide. After certification, growers report eligible vine losses directly to FSA.

An FSA adjuster then visits the vineyard to evaluate damage and document field conditions. After the site visit, growers may include additional supporting documentation as part of the application process. In Texas, a regional AgriLife Extension Viticulture Specialist visits affected sites and provides written documentation to strengthen the grower’s request for assistance.

TAP helps offset costs tied to re-establishing productive vineyard acreage after qualifying losses, including those caused by weather-related events and other approved conditions. The program supports long-term vineyard recovery and maintains productive vineyard capacity.

Growers interested in TAP should contact their local USDA Farm Service Agency office to confirm eligibility, review requirements, and begin the application process. Early contact with FSA improves responsiveness and ensures timely reporting and documentation.

Additional program details and a fact sheet are available here. — Story Contributed by Texas A&M Viticulture and Wine Science