HELP REPAIR A FAMILY VINEYARD DESTROYED BY FLOODING IN MAINE

Hello,

My name is Paul Caruso, and I live in Phillips, Maine. I have a family wine grape vineyard with almost 400 vines on the Sandy River in Phillips, Maine, and have been cultivating the vines since their 2009 planting. There are 10 different varieties that were acclimatized for Zone Four at the time of their planting. Presently, they are supported by 36 rows of infrastructure on trellises covering almost four acres. For 15 years, I pruned and cultivated the vines to ensure their maturity and viability. I am proud to say that our vineyard has never been sprayed with any insecticide that could have had harmful impact on the environment. I’ve always respected the natural beauty and purity of our Sandy River location.

The 2023 flooding in May required extensive rebuilding of access roads and supporting structures. That was completed in July. In August, we were again subject to more flooding and, once again, rebuilt the vineyard infrastructure. But the flooding on Dec 17th left the vineyard infrastructure in shambles and access areas impassable. The vineyard was an island awash in flood debris. All the equipment necessary to support the vineyard was destroyed. Please review the video and pictures to see what 7-8 feet of flood water can do. I am now running on empty—financially and emotionally.

At 75 years old, I find myself completely and utterly devastated. I needed help, and applied to FEMA, the SBA and numerous other agencies. I was declined by all. FEMA's application option of “tools necessary for my employment” would not cover any of the losses. FEMA tortured me for 10 long weeks, stringing me along, yet offering nothing but positive encouragement as to helping my situation with funding. They were provided with all the documentation that they required. I also requested the assistance in the matter of Maine Senator Susan Collins, and her office was both responsive and understanding of my situation. But FEMA still has declined any financial help. So, I am asking You and the World to help with any amount of donation that you might feel comfortable with.

Vine bud swell will be at its peak by May, and the pruning will be necessary to achieve the proper sugar values and begin the propagation schedule. I need help. A decade past traditional retirement age, my modest work in the vineyard is what sustains me.

Thank you very much, I am grateful for your consideration.

Paul S Caruso