If you have lost colonies and hives then you are likely to be eligible for assistance through the USDA FSA service ELAP program. You can receive $124 per colony or if the entire hive was lost, $230. It will be necessary to apply in person at your county FSA office. I have contacted a local FSA office and have secured the forms you need complete. You will need to submit a Notice of Loss and an Emergency Loss Assistance for Honeybee Application. The links to the forms are provided for your reference. An FSA representative can answer questions and assist in completing the forms. Beekeepers have already started to apply. I strongly recommend that you not ignore this assistance.
 
The effort to recover in the spring will be challenged by an unusually high demand for queens, packages and nucs. The NC State Apiculture program will coordinate the efforts of the NCSBA and the NCDA to develop a strategy to increase the availability of bees. This will be done in part through networking with other beekeepers statewide. Extension Apiculturist Dr. David Tarpy has published an Extension news article that contains information and an important survey. This survey will facilitate a key component for recovery; I ask that you please take the time to participate.
I believe that we all are thankful for the volunteers who have responded to help people affected by the storm; their response has been the most important. Volunteers in the NCSBA leadership, local chapters, and membership will play a key role with honey bee recovery for the region. The NCSBA is a volunteer organization. I/we will be part of a team of volunteers who will be working to help the beekeepers of the region recover and move forward; please be respectful of our time and efforts. Our hearts lie with the people of WNC and we have hope for the best outcome as possible for all involved.

Rick Coor, NCSBA President