How did federal programs help those affected by the dust bowl
Federal programs played a crucial role in helping those affected by the Dust Bowl during the 1930s. Here's an explanation of some of the major federal programs that provided assistance:
1. The Resettlement Administration (RA): The RA was established in 1935 to help relocate farmers from the hardest-hit areas to more sustainable regions. It provided loans to farmers to purchase new land and offered technical assistance for farming practices that could prevent soil erosion.
2. The Soil Conservation Service (SCS): The SCS, established in 1935, aimed to combat soil erosion caused by the dust storms. It provided education and technical support to farmers on implementing soil conservation practices like contour plowing, terracing, and windbreaks. The SCS also provided financial assistance for farmers to carry out these conservation measures.
3. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA): FERA, created in 1933, provided direct relief to families suffering from the effects of the Dust Bowl. It distributed food, clothing, and other essential supplies, as well as funding public works projects to create employment opportunities.
4. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC): The CCC, established in 1933, was a work relief program that employed young unemployed men in various conservation projects. The CCC employed thousands of workers in the affected regions, undertaking efforts such as tree planting, soil erosion control, and building firebreaks.
5. The Works Progress Administration (WPA): The WPA, established in 1935, was responsible for employing millions of people during the Great Depression, including those affected by the Dust Bowl. The WPA provided jobs through various public works projects, such as building infrastructure, roads, schools, and parks.
These federal programs aimed to provide immediate humanitarian assistance, as well as long-term solutions for sustainable farming practices and economic recovery in the Dust Bowl regions. They also focused on conserving natural resources and preventing future ecological disasters.