Please submit all media inquiries for FSA to FPAC.BC.press@usda.gov.
USDA Announces Conservation Reserve Program General Signup for 2024
Mon Mar 11, 2024 10:00 AM US/EasternAthens, GA., March 4, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can begin signing up for the general Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) starting March 4 and running through March 29, 2024. This conservation opportunity gives producers tools to conserve wildlife habitat while achieving other conservation benefits, including sequestering carbon and improving water quality and soil health.U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency in Georgia to Host Three Additional Information Sessions on Farm Loans
Thu Mar 7, 2024 10:00 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Mar. 5, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, Jr., invites agricultural producers to attend one of several Farm Loan Information Sessions to learn more about the capital assistance options available to start, expand, or enhance an agricultural operation. Tripp and FSA staff will provide an overview of current USDA farm loan programs and how to apply. The in-person information sessions are free and open to the public. Producers planning to attend a session should email GAOutreach@usda.gov to RSVP or for any questions.Dairy Producers Can Enroll for 2024 Dairy Margin Coverage Beginning Feb. 28
Mon Feb 26, 2024 08:58 AMWASHINGTON, Feb. 23, 2024– Starting next Wednesday, dairy producers will be able to enroll for 2024 Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC), an important safety net program offered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides producers with price support to help offset milk and feed price differences. This year’s DMC signup begins Feb. 28, 2024, and ends April 29, 2024. For those who sign up for 2024 DMC coverage, payments may begin as soon as March 4, 2024, for any payments that triggered in January 2024.
USDA to Issue $306 Million in Final Payments to Producers Impacted by 2020 and 2021 Natural Disasters
Wed Feb 14, 2024 03:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Feb. 6, 2024 - The U. S Department of Agriculture (USDA) is issuing final Emergency Relief Program (ERP) payments totaling approximately $306 million to eligible commodity and specialty crop producers who incurred losses due to natural disasters in 2020 and 2021. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will begin issuing these additional payments to eligible producers this week.USDA Reopens Signup for Continuous Conservation Reserve Program
Mon Jan 29, 2024 12:00 PM ESTAthens, GA., Jan. 12, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting applications for the Continuous Conservation Reserve Program (Continuous CRP) signup. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) encourages agricultural producers and landowners in Georgia who are interested in conservation opportunities for their land in exchange for yearly rental payments to consider the enrollment options available through Continuous CRP, which also includes the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) offered by FSA partners. Additionally, producers participating in CRP can now apply to re-enroll, if their contracts will expire this year.U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency in Georgia to Host Information Sessions on Farm Loans
Mon Jan 8, 2024 04:00 PM ESTATHENS, Ga., Jan. 8, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, Jr., invites agricultural producers to attend one of several Farm Loan Information Sessions to learn more about the capital assistance options available to start, expand, or enhance an agricultural operation. Tripp and FSA staff will provide an overview of current USDA farm loan programs and how to apply. The in-person information sessions are free and open to the public. Producers planning to attend a session should email GAOutreach@usda.gov to RSVP or for any questions.U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency in Georgia Reminds Livestock Producers in Eligible Counties to Report Forage Losses by Jan. 30
Mon Jan 8, 2024 12:00 PM ESTATHENS, Ga., Jan. 3, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, Jr., reminds livestock producers in eligible counties who suffered grazing losses that occurred throughout 2023 due to drought to report their losses timely and to enroll in the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) by Jan. 30, 2024.Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage Programs Receive 2018 Farm Bill One Year Extension, Farmers Can Now Enroll for the 2024 Crop Year
Wed Dec 20, 2023 03:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that agricultural producers can now enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2024 crop year. Producers can enroll and make election changes for the 2024 crop year starting Dec. 18, 2023. The deadline to complete enrollment and any election change is March 15, 2024.U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency in Georgia is Accepting Emergency Conservation Program Applications for Crawford County
Fri Dec 15, 2023 01:00 PM ESTAthens, GA, Dec. 11, 2023 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, today announced that Crawford County producers are now eligible to apply for the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) to address damages from severe storms. ECP signup begins on December 18, 2023, and ends on January 18, 2023.USDA Reminds Specialty Crop Growers of Deadline to Apply for Assistance for 2023 On-Farm Food Safety Expenses
Fri Dec 15, 2023 01:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2023 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds specialty crop growers that assistance is available for producers who incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses to obtain or renew a food safety certification through the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops (FSCSC) program. Producers can apply for assistance on their calendar year 2023 expenses through Jan. 31, 2024.U.S. Department of Agriculture Designates Twelve Additional Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas Due to Drought Conditions
Wed Dec 6, 2023 03:00 PM US/EasternATHENS, Ga., Dec. 6, 2023 – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently designated an additional twelve Georgia counties as primary natural disaster areas due to drought conditions. The Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. The additional primary Georgia counties are Bartow, Cherokee, Dawson, Fannin, Floyd, Forsyth, Gilmer, Gordon, Lumpkin, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield. This announcement expands upon previous designations that declared nine Georgia counties as primary natural disaster areas due to recent severe drought conditions.USDA Now Accepting Applications for Farm Loans Online
Wed Dec 6, 2023 03:00 PM US/EasternWASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched an online application for Direct Loan customers. More than 26,000 customers who submit a Direct Loan application each year can now use an online, interactive, guided application that is paperless and provides helpful features including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan. This tool is part of a broader effort by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) to streamline its processes, improve customer service, and expand credit access.USDA Makes Producer-Friendly Change to 2023 Notice of Loss Requirements for Two Livestock Disaster Assistance Programs
Wed Dec 6, 2023 03:00 PM US/EasternWASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has waived certain notice of loss requirements for 2023 for the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish (ELAP) and Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). In an effort to streamline assistance to support access to critical 2023 natural disaster recovery assistance, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is waiving the requirement to submit ELAP or LIP notices of loss within a pre-determined number of days for 2023. Instead, producers have the flexibility to submit 2023 notices of loss as soon as possible, once losses are realized, following a natural disaster event or no later than the established annual program application for payment deadlines for each program. FSA county committees are also being asked to re-evaluate 2023 ELAP and LIP late-filed notices of loss to determine if the waiver applies.U.S. Department of Agriculture in Georgia to Host Webinar on Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program
Mon Dec 4, 2023 11:00 AM US/EasternATHENS, Ga., Nov. 30, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) invites Georgia agricultural employers, producers, and stakeholders to attend a webinar on the Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program (FLSP). FSA State Executive Director Arthur Tripp, FSA staff, and representatives from USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) will provide an overview and take questions regarding this grant opportunity, which is designed to improve the resiliency of the food and agricultural supply chain by addressing workforce challenges farmers and ranchers face. The virtual meeting is free and open to the public and will take place on Dec. 5, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Those who plan to attend should email GAOutreach@usda.gov to request the webinar link.The U.S. Department of Agriculture Expands Drought Recovery Assistance to Livestock Producers in Additional Georgia Counties
Mon Dec 4, 2023 11:00 AM US/EasternATHENS, Ga., Nov. 28, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is now accepting applications in four additional eligible counties for the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) to provide financial assistance to eligible livestock producers for 2023 grazing losses due to a qualifying drought. This expands upon a previous announcement of eligibility for twenty Georgia counties. The deadline to apply for LFP assistance is January 30, 2024.USDA Designates Eleven Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
Tue Nov 21, 2023 10:00 AM US/EasternThis Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.Federal Emergency Management Agency Designates 25 Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
Tue Nov 21, 2023 09:00 AM US/EasternThis Presidential disaster declaration allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.Federal Emergency Management Agency Designates 4 Additional Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
Tue Nov 21, 2023 09:00 AM US/EasternThis Presidential disaster declaration allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.U.S. Department of Agriculture Designates Five Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas Due to Severe Drought Conditions
Fri Nov 17, 2023 10:00 AM US/EasternATHENS, Ga., Nov. 15, 2023 – On November 13, 2023, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) designated five Georgia counties as primary natural disaster areas. The Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. This announcement expands upon a previous designation that declared four Northwest Georgia counties natural disaster areas due to recent severe drought conditions.The U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Livestock Producers in 20 Georgia Counties Are Eligible for Drought Recovery Assistance
Tue Nov 14, 2023 11:55 AMATHENS, Ga., Nov. 14, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is now accepting applications in eligible counties for the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) to provide financial assistance to eligible livestock producers for 2023 grazing losses due to a qualifying drought. The deadline to apply is January 30, 2024.
USDA Designates 27 Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
Mon Nov 13, 2023 01:00 PM ESTThis Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.USDA Designates 4 Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
Mon Nov 13, 2023 01:00 PM ESTThis Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.2023 Farm Service Agency County Committee Elections Open This Week
Wed Nov 8, 2023 10:16 AMWASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2023 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin mailing ballots this week for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) county and urban county committee elections to all eligible agricultural producers and private landowners across the country. Elections are occurring in certain Local Administrative Areas for these committee members who make important decisions about how Federal farm programs are administered locally. Producers and landowners must return ballots to their local FSA county office or have their ballots postmarked by Dec. 4, 2023, for those ballots to be counted.
USDA to Provide More Than $3 Billion to Commodity and Specialty Crop Producers Impacted by 2022 Natural Disasters
Tue Oct 31, 2023 08:00 AM US/EasternWASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2023 - The U. S Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide more than $3 billion to commodity and specialty crop producers impacted by natural disaster events in 2022. Eligible impacted producers can apply for financial assistance through the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) 2022. The program will help offset the financial impacts of crop yield and value losses from qualifying disasters occurring in 2022.USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program Pays More Than $1.77 Billion to America’s Producers in Support of Conservation and Climate-Smart Agriculture
Tue Oct 17, 2023 10:36 AMWASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2023 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued more than $1.77 billion this year to agricultural producers and landowners through its Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), a critical piece of the Department’s efforts to support climate-smart agriculture and forestry on working lands. Right now, CRP’s more than 667,000 participants received payments from USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) for their voluntary conservation efforts on more than 23 million acres of private land. Since 2021, CRP has grown by 21 percent in terms of acres enrolled, testament to the Biden-Harris administration’s program improvement efforts.
USDA Extends Milk Loss Program Assistance Deadline to Oct. 30
Tue Oct 17, 2023 10:33 AMUSDA Extends Application Deadline for Discrimination Financial Assistance Program to January 13
Mon Oct 16, 2023 10:00 AM US/EasternWASHINGTON, Oct. 13, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is extending the deadline for the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program to January 13, 2024, to give eligible farmers, ranchers and forest landowners more time to apply for assistance. The original deadline was October 31, 2023.Dairy Margin Coverage Program Provides Critical Support for Dairy Operations
Mon Oct 2, 2023 10:00 AM ESTWASHINGTON – Sept. 29, 2023— The August milk margin triggered the eighth consecutive payment for dairy producers who obtained Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) for the 2023 program year. August’s income over feed margin is $6.46 per hundredweight (cwt.) with projected DMC payments totaling $120 million. To date, including the projected August payments, dairy producers have received more than $1.2 billion in much needed economic support for 2023 and margin forecasts indicate the likelihood of more to come before the end of the calendar year.
USDA to Begin Issuing $1.75 Billion to Agricultural Producers Through Critical Emergency Relief Programs
Wed Sep 27, 2023 03:00 PM US/EasternWASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that it will begin issuing more than $1.75 billion in emergency relief payments to eligible farmers and livestock producers. These much-needed payments are helping farming and ranching operations recover following natural disasters in 2020, 2021 and 2022.USDA Announces Additional Program Payment for Rice Producers in Georgia
Wed Sep 27, 2023 03:00 PM US/EasternAthens, GA., Sept. 27, 2023— The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced that rice producers will receive an additional payment through the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Rice Production Program, which provides up to $250 million in assistance to rice farmers based on 2022 rice acres.USDA Launches Program to Support Agricultural Employers and Farmworkers, Aiming to Increase Economic and Supply Chain Resilience as Part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda
Fri Sep 22, 2023 01:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, D.C., September 22, 2023 – The Biden-Harris Administration today announced that agricultural employers can begin to apply for a pilot program designed to improve the resiliency of the food and agricultural supply chain by addressing workforce challenges farmers and ranchers face. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in coordination with other federal agencies, is announcing up to $65 million in grants available for the Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program (FLSP Program).
USDA Designates Meriwether County, GA Primary Natural Disaster Area
Tue Sep 19, 2023 03:00 PM US/EasternThis Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.USDA Designates 25 Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
Tue Sep 19, 2023 03:00 PM US/EasternThis Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.USDA Announces Milk Loss Assistance for Dairy Operations Impacted by 2020, 2021 and 2022 Disaster Events
Mon Sep 11, 2023 03:00 PM US/EasternWASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2023 –The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced Milk Loss Program (MLP) assistance for eligible dairy operations for milk that was dumped or removed, without compensation, from the commercial milk market due to qualifying weather events and the consequences of those weather events that inhibited delivery or storage of milk (e.g., power outages, impassable roads, infrastructure losses, etc.) during calendar years 2020, 2021 and 2022. Administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), signup for MLP begins Sept. 11 and runs through Oct. 16, 2023.
USDA Encourages Ag Producers, Residents to Prepare for Hurricane Idalia
Tue Aug 29, 2023 02:30 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2023 –The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds communities, farmers and ranchers, families and small businesses in the path of Hurricane Idalia that USDA has programs that provide assistance in the wake of disasters. USDA staff in the regional, state and county offices stand ready and are eager to help.USDA Updates Livestock Disaster Payment Rate to Assist Producers Hard-Hit by Heat and Humidity
Tue Aug 29, 2023 02:30 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Aug. 25, 2023 – The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced today it is updating the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) payment rate to support livestock producers in the Midwest who have lost cattle to the extreme heat and humidity experienced this summer. To help indemnify ranchers to reflect a trend towards higher cattle weights in feedlots, the 2023 LIP payment rate for beef calves over 800 pounds will increase from $1244 per head to $1618, an increase of $374.USDA Extends Deadline for Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Until August 11
Tue Jul 25, 2023 11:30 AM ESTAthens, GA., July 21, 2023 –The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is extending the deadline for the new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program (ODMAP) to August 11, 2023. This extension gives Georgia organic dairy producers more than two additional weeks to apply for the program. ODMAP helps producers mitigate market volatility, higher input and transportation costs, and unstable feed supply and prices that have created unique hardships in the organic dairy industry.USDA Accepts Nearly 2.7 Million Acres in Grassland CRP Signup, Successfully Closing the Gap and Bringing CRP Near to Acreage Cap
Fri Jul 21, 2023 04:00 PM ESTAthens, State, July 19, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting offers for nearly 2.7 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners through this year’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Grassland signup. This program allows producers and landowners to continue grazing and haying practices while protecting grasslands and further CRP conservation efforts. Grassland CRP is part of the Biden-Harris administration’s broader effort to address climate change and conserve natural resources. This year’s signup results include 3,578 acres in Georgia.USDA Invests $7.4 Million in 25 Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Efforts
Fri Jul 21, 2023 04:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, July 18, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $7.4 million in 25 selected grants that support urban agriculture and innovative production. Selected grant recipients, including community gardens and nonprofit farms, will increase food production and access in economically distressed communities, provide job training and education, and allow partners to develop business plans and zoning proposals.U.S. Department of Agriculture Leadership in Georgia Meets with Coastal Georgia Producers and Agricultural Leaders to Discuss Farm Service Agency Programs and Resources
Tue Jul 11, 2023 02:00 PM ESTATHENS, Ga., July 6, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp and Georgia FSA staff, recently visited with oyster and clam producers on Sapelo Island. They toured the seeding facilities at Sapelo Sea Farms, Georgia's oldest clam farm and learned more about their involvement in Georgia’s burgeoning aquaculture industry.USDA Reminds Agricultural Producers of July 14 Deadline to Apply for Pandemic and Natural Disaster Revenue Loss Programs
Tue Jul 11, 2023 02:00 PM ESTAthens, GA, July 10, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) reminds producers of the July 14 deadline to apply for both the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) Phase Two and the Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program (PARP). These revenue-based programs help offset revenue losses from 2020 and 2021 natural disasters or the COVID-19 pandemic.Urban Producers, Public Invited to Attend August Meeting of Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production
Tue Jul 11, 2023 02:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, July 6, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) encourages urban producers, innovative producers and other stakeholders to submit comments for and virtually attend a public meeting of the Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (Committee) on Aug. 1, 2023.Financial Assistance Application Process Opens for USDA Farm Loan Borrowers Who Have Faced Discrimination
Tue Jul 11, 2023 02:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, July 7, 2023 – Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the opening of the financial assistance application process for eligible farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs prior to January 2021. Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) directs USDA to provide this assistance. Since the law’s passage, USDA has worked diligently to design the program in accordance with significant stakeholder input.USDA Announces Historic Investment in Wildlife Conservation, Expands Partnership to Include Additional Programs
Thu Jun 29, 2023 08:58 AMUSDA Designates 18 Georgia Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
Tue Jun 27, 2023 10:30 AM ESTThis Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.Biden-Harris Administration Announces Intended Investment of Approximately $300 Million in 50 Projects Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access for Underserved Producers
Tue Jun 27, 2023 10:30 AM ESTWASHINGTON, June 22, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced its selection of 50 projects for potential award, totaling approximately $300 million. These innovative projects will help improve access to land, capital, and markets for underserved farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners.USDA Accepts More Than 1 Million Acres in Offers Through Conservation Reserve Program General Signup
Thu Jun 22, 2023 02:30 PM ESTWASHINGTON, June 12, 2023 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting more than 1 million acres in this year’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) General signup. This is one of several signups that USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is holding for the program. The results for CRP General signup reflect the continued importance of CRP as a tool to help producers invest in the long-term health, sustainability, and profitability of their land and resources. The signup’s results include 4,397 acres in Georgia.Farm Service Agency Now Accepting Nominations for Farmers and Ranchers to Serve on Local County Committees
Thu Jun 22, 2023 01:01 PMExpanding Access to Agricultural Pathways Across Georgia
Thu Jun 22, 2023 11:30 AMUSDA Reminds Georgia Producers to File Crop Acreage Reports
Thu Jun 22, 2023 10:30 AM ESTAthens, GA., June 21, 2023 – Agricultural producers in Georgia who have not yet completed their crop acreage reports after planting should make an appointment with their U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) service center before the applicable deadline.USDA Announces Corrections to Emergency Relief Program Policy to More Accurately Reflect 2020 and 2021 Natural Disaster Impacts on Crops Intended for On-Farm Use
Thu Jun 22, 2023 10:09 AMU.S. Department of Agriculture in Georgia to Host June 15 Meeting on Resources for Livestock Producers
Thu Jun 8, 2023 04:00 PM ESTATHENS, Ga., June 8, 2023 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, invites livestock producers to attend a meeting to discuss available federal resources. Tripp, FSA staff, and representatives from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Risk Management Agency (RMA) will provide an overview of current USDA programs and funding opportunities of specific interest to livestock producers. The meeting is free and open to the public.Federal Emergency Management Agency Designates Six Georgia Counties Contiguous Natural Disaster Areas
Thu Jun 8, 2023 03:30 PM ESTThis Presidential disaster declaration allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.Federal Emergency Management Agency Designates Four Georgia Counties Contiguous Natural Disaster Areas
Thu Jun 8, 2023 12:30 PM ESTThis Presidential disaster declaration allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.USDA Extends Application Deadline for Revenue Loss Programs to July 14
Tue Jun 6, 2023 08:20 AMUSDA Previews Emergency Relief Assistance for Agricultural Producers Who Incurred Losses Due to 2022 Natural Disaster Events
Wed May 24, 2023 08:45 AM ESTWASHINGTON, May 23, 2023 — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently announced plans to roll out $3.7 billion in Emergency Relief Program (ERP) and Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) assistance to crop and livestock producers who sustained losses due to a qualifying natural disaster event in calendar year 2022. USDA is sharing early information to allow producers time to gather documents in advance of program delivery. Through distribution of remaining funds, USDA is also concluding the 2021 ELRP program by sending payments in the amount of 20% of the initial ELRP payment to all existing recipients.USDA Offers Assistance to Help Organic Dairy Producers Cover Increased Costs
Wed May 24, 2023 08:30 AM ESTAthens, GA., May 22, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), announces assistance for dairy producers with the new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program (ODMAP). ODMAP is established to help mitigate market volatility, higher input and transportation costs, and unstable feed supply and prices that have created unique hardships in the organic dairy industry. Specifically, under the ODMAP, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is making $104 million available to organic dairy operations to assist with projected marketing costs in 2023, calculated using their marketing costs in 2022.USDA Offers Livestock Disaster Program Flexibilities; Responds to Needs Expressed by Producers Hard-Hit by Natural Disasters
Mon May 22, 2023 09:00 AM ESTAthens, GA., May 22, 2023 – USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has provided additional flexibilities and further enhanced disaster recovery assistance provided by the Emergency Assistance for Livestock Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP), Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) and Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) in response to needs expressed by livestock producers across the U.S. who have experienced significant feed, forage and animal losses from natural disasters. These livestock disaster program policy enhancements include an extended June 2, 2023, deadline to submit notices of loss and applications for payment for 2022 losses. The deadline extension and program flexibilities are available to eligible producers nationwide who incurred losses from a qualifying natural disaster event.USDA Seeks Members for Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production
Thu May 18, 2023 11:30 AM ESTWASHINGTON, May 15, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking nominations for four positions on the Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production. Nominations will be open to public from May 15, 2023, to July 15, 2023. The 12-member Committee, which first convened in March 2022, is part of USDA’s efforts to increase support for urban agriculture and innovative production. Members of the Committee provide input on policy development and help identify barriers to urban agriculture as USDA works to promote urban farming and the economic opportunities it provides in cities across the country.USDA Accepting Applications to Help Cover Costs of Organic Producers
Thu May 18, 2023 11:00 AM ESTAthens, GA., May 15, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will cover up to 75% of the costs associated with organic certification, up to $750 per category, through the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP). Georgia Farm Service Agency (FSA) encourages organic agricultural producers and handlers to apply for OCCSP by Oct. 31, 2023, for expenses incurred from Oct. 1, 2022, through Sept. 30, 2023.USDA’s CLEAR30 Offers Producers with Expiring Voluntary Conservation Contracts Longer Term Options
Thu Apr 27, 2023 03:00 PM ESTAthens, GA, April 27, 2023 – Agricultural producers and landowners with certain expiring Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) contracts can receive additional rental incentives and extend that land’s role in conservation for another 30 years. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has opened the signup period for its Clean Lakes, Estuaries, And Rivers enrollment (CLEAR30) now through July 31, 2023.
USDA Announces Grassland Conservation Reserve Program Signup for 2023
Thu Apr 27, 2023 12:15 PM ESTAthens, GA., April 24, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can begin signing up for the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) through May 26, 2023. Among CRP enrollment opportunities, Grassland CRP is a unique working lands program, allowing producers and landowners to continue grazing and haying practices while conserving grasslands and promoting plant and animal biodiversity as well as healthier soil.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency in Georgia to Host April 11 Workshop on Emergency and Pandemic Assistance Programs
Wed Apr 5, 2023 03:30 PM ESTATHENS, Ga., April 5, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, invites agricultural producers to attend a workshop to learn about revenue loss assistance available through two new programs, the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) Phase Two and the Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program (PARP).
Urban Producers, Public Invited to Attend April Meeting of Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production
Fri Mar 31, 2023 03:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, March 30, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) encourages urban producers, innovative producers and other stakeholders to submit comments for and virtually attend the fifth public meeting of the Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (Committee) on April 18, 2023.
USDA Announces Additional Assistance for Distressed Farmers Facing Financial Risk
Tue Mar 28, 2023 02:30 PM ESTWASHINGTON, March 27, 2023 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that beginning in April it will provide approximately $123 million in additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying farm loan program borrowers who are facing financial risk, as part of the $3.1 billion to help distressed farm loan borrowers that was provided through Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
USDA Names Appointees to the Georgia Farm Service Agency State Committee
Fri Mar 17, 2023 02:00 PM ESTAthens, Ga., March 17, 2023- The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced appointees who will serve on the Georgia USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) state committee.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Leadership in Georgia Participated in Panel at Georgia Cattlemen’s Association Convention; Discusses Federal Farm Programs
Thu Mar 16, 2023 03:00 PM ESTATHENS, Ga., March 16, 2023 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, recently spoke on a panel at the 61st Annual Georgia Cattlemen’s Association Convention, where he shared valuable information on FSA’s conservation, disaster assistance, and farm loan programs.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency in Georgia to Host March 23 Workshop on Resources for New and Beginning Farmers
Thu Mar 16, 2023 03:00 PM ESTATHENS, Ga., March 14, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, invites agricultural producers to attend a workshop which will discuss federal resources available to new and beginning farmers.
USDA Releases Nationwide Farmer, Rancher and Forest Manager Prospective Customer Survey
Thu Mar 9, 2023 02:15 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Mar. 7, 2022 – Producers can take a nationwide survey to help the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) improve and increase access to its programs and services for America’s farmers, ranchers, and forest managers. The survey includes new and existing customers. USDA encourages all agricultural producers to take the survey, especially those who have not worked with USDA previously. The survey gathers feedback on programs and services available through USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Risk Management Agency (RMA).
Black History Month: Atlanta Universities Host Historic Student Education Panels Representing Black Indigenous People of Color Serving in Key Federal Government Leadership Positions
Wed Mar 1, 2023 10:30 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Feb. 28, 2023 – In recognition of Black History Month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director Arthur Tripp, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Region 4 Director Antrell Tyson, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 4 Administrator Daniel Blackman recently participated in a series of historic panel events.
USDA Announces Conservation Reserve Program Signup for 2023
Wed Feb 22, 2023 11:00 AM ESTAthens, Ga., Feb. 16, 2023 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can begin applying for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) General signup starting February 27 through April 7, 2023. CRP is a cornerstone voluntary conservation program offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and a key tool in the Biden-Harris administration’s effort to address climate change and help agricultural communities invest in the long-term well-being of their land and natural resources.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Leadership in Georgia Delivers Keynote Address at 2023 Georgia Organics Conference and Expo; Highlights USDA Resources
Wed Feb 22, 2023 11:00 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Feb. 20, 2023 – USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, recently delivered a keynote address at the 2023 Georgia Organics Conference and Expo in Perry, Georgia where he provided an overview of FSA resources and assistance, including the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) and Microloans.
USDA Leadership and EPA Regional Administrator Co-Host Roundtable Discussion with Underserved and Underrepresented Producers
Thu Feb 16, 2023 02:00 PM ESTATHENS, Ga., Feb. 16, 2023 – Yesterday, in recognition of Black History Month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 4 Administrator Daniel Blackman and USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Georgia State Executive Director Arthur Tripp co-hosted a roundtable discussion at Fort Valley State University directly engaging with underserved and/or underrepresented agricultural producers to learn about challenges, concerns and opportunities where the EPA and USDA FSA can provide support.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Leadership in Georgia Visits Peachtree Farm, Discusses Urban Agriculture Initiative
Wed Feb 15, 2023 10:00 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Feb. 6, 2023 – USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, recently visited Peachtree Farm in Gwinnett County for a tour and roundtable discussion with urban agriculture producers, local students, and agricultural leaders to discuss USDA resources and the Department’s new urban
agriculture initiative.USDA Develops Simplified Direct Loan Application to Improve Customer Service
Tue Feb 7, 2023 05:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Feb. 7, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has developed a simplified direct loan application to provide improved customer experience for producers applying for loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA). The simplified direct loan application enables producers to complete a more streamlined application, reduced from 29 to 13 pages.
USDA Invests $9.4 Million in Compost and Food Waste Reduction Projects
Fri Feb 3, 2023 10:30 AM ESTWASHINGTON, Feb. 2, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing more than $9.4 million in 45 cooperative agreements that support innovative, scalable waste management plans to reduce and divert food waste from landfills.
Urban Producers, Public Invited to Attend February Meeting of Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production
Thu Feb 2, 2023 09:45 AM ESTWASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) encourages urban producers, innovative producers and other stakeholders to virtually attend the fourth public meeting of the Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (Committee) on Feb. 23, 2023.
USDA Announces Grants for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production
Fri Jan 27, 2023 03:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Jan. 26, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making available up to $7.5 million for grants through its Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP). The competitive grants will support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production projects through two categories, Planning Projects and Implementation Projects.
USDA Announces Additional Assistance for Dairy Farmers
Fri Jan 27, 2023 03:00 PM ESTWASHINGTON, January 23, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the details of additional assistance for dairy producers, including a second round of payments through the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program (PMVAP) and a new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program (ODMAP).
USDA Announces Signup for 2023 Assistance for On-Farm Food Safety Expenses for Specialty Crop Growers
Mon Jan 23, 2023 10:00 AM ESTWASHINGTON, Jan. 20, 2023— The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds specialty crop producers of available assistance to help cover certain costs of complying with regulatory and market-driven food safety certification requirements.
USDA Reminds Producers of Continuous Certification Option for Perennial Forage
Wed Jan 18, 2023 10:00 AM ESTWASHINGTON, Jan. 11, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds agricultural producers with perennial forage crops of an option to report their acreage once, without having to report that acreage in subsequent years, as long as there are no applicable changes on the farm. Interested producers can select the continuous certification option after USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) certifies their acreage report.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Leadership in Georgia Meets with Savannah Producers and Agricultural Leaders
Wed Jan 18, 2023 09:30 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Jan. 17, 2023 – USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, recently attended the Southeast Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference to speak with members of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association. Additionally, Tripp visited with Savannah State University administration and met with Savannah producers and agricultural leaders at Ottawa Farms to discuss FSA resources and assistance available to fruit and vegetable producers.
USDA Announces Major Program Improvements, Progress, and Investments to Benefit American Farmers, Ranchers, and Producers
Wed Jan 11, 2023 01:00 PM ESTSAN JUAN, P.R., January 9, 2023 — Today, at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced several major developments at the U.S. Department of Agriculture that will benefit farmers, ranchers and producers across the nation.
Arthur Tripp, State Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Georgia Delivers Remarks at Farmer Appreciation Breakfast
Thu Dec 15, 2022 11:00 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Dec. 13, 2022 – USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director (SED), Arthur Tripp, recently attended the Farmer Appreciation Breakfast in Valdosta, Georgia where he delivered remarks and provided farm program updates to local producers in attendance. The breakfast event and Tripp’s remarks honored local farmers in Lowndes and Echols counties for their significant contributions to the success of Georgia’s agriculture industry.
Georgia USDA Leadership Brings the Farm Experience to Over 1,600 Metro Atlanta Students
Thu Dec 15, 2022 11:00 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Oct. 17, 2022 – USDA Farm Service Agency State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, recently hosted educational events on agriculture at schools in the Metro Atlanta area to launch USDA’s urban agriculture initiative for the state of Georgia.
USDA Leadership in Georgia Visits with Producers in Cochran to Discuss FSA Programs and Resources
Thu Dec 15, 2022 11:00 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Dec. 7, 2022 – USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, recently participated in a roundtable discussion with producers in Cochran to discuss available FSA assistance, including the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program (FSFL), Microloans, and the Noninsured Crop Disaster
Assistance Program (NAP).USDA Previews Crop and Revenue Loss Assistance for Agricultural Producers
Mon Dec 5, 2022 10:30 AM ESTWASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2022 — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced plans for additional emergency relief and pandemic assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). USDA is preparing to roll out the Emergency Relief Program (ERP)
Farmers Can Now Make 2023 Crop Year Elections, Enroll in Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage Programs
Mon Dec 5, 2022 10:30 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Oct. 20, 2022 – Agricultural producers can now change election and enroll in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2023 crop year, two key safety net programs offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
USDA Launches Loan Assistance Tool to Enhance Equity and Customer Service
Mon Dec 5, 2022 10:30 AM ESTATHENS, Ga., Oct. 27, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) launched a new online tool to help farmers and ranchers better navigate the farm loan application process. This uniform application process will help to ensure all farm loan applicants receive equal support and have a consistent customer experience with USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) regardless of their individual circumstances.
Dairy Producers Can Now Enroll for 2023 Signup for Dairy Margin Coverage
Thu Oct 20, 2022 09:00 AM US/EasternWASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2022 – Dairy producers can now enroll for 2023 coverage through the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) Program, an important safety net program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that helps producers manage changes in milk and feed prices. Last year, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) took steps to improve coverage, especially for small- and mid-sized dairies, including offering a new Supplemental DMC program and updating its feed cost formula to better address retroactive, current and future feed costs. These changes continue to support producers through this year’s signup, which begins today and ends Dec. 9, 2022.
USDA Provides Payments of nearly $800 Million in Assistance to Help Keep Farmers Farming
Wed Oct 19, 2022 04:30 PM ESTRelease Description: USDA has announced that distressed borrowers with qualifying USDA farm loans have already received nearly $800 million in assistance, as part of the $3.1 billion in assistance for distressed farm loan borrowers provided through Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The IRA directed USDA to expedite assistance to distressed borrowers of direct or guaranteed loans administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) whose operations face financial risk. Today’s announcement kicks off a process to provide assistance to distressed farm loan borrowers using several complementary approaches, with the goal of keeping them farming, removing obstacles that currently prevent many of these borrowers from returning to farming, and improving the way that USDA approaches borrowing and servicing.
USDA Provides Payments of nearly $800 Million in Assistance to Help Keep Farmers Farming
Wed Oct 19, 2022 04:30 PM ESTWASHINGTON, October 18, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that distressed borrowers with qualifying USDA farm loans have already received nearly $800 million in assistance, as part of the $3.1 billion in assistance for distressed farm loan borrowers provided through Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The IRA directed USDA to expedite assistance to distressed borrowers of direct or guaranteed loans administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) whose operations face financial risk.
USDA Encourages Ag Producers, Residents to Prepare for Hurricane Ian
Wed Sep 28, 2022 10:30 AM US/EasternWASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2022 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds communities, farmers and ranchers, families and small businesses in the path of Hurricane Ian that USDA has programs that provide assistance in the wake of disasters. USDA staff in the regional, state and county offices stand ready and are eager to help.
USDA Invests $14.5 Million in Taxpayer Education, Program Outreach Efforts for Farmers and Ranchers
Tue Aug 9, 2022 05:00 PM ESTAthens, GA, Aug. 5, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing in two outreach and education efforts for farmers and ranchers, including those who are new to farming or who have been historically underserved by USDA programs. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is investing $10 million for agriculture-oriented taxpayer education as well as $4.5 million in outreach for the Conservation Reserve Program’s Transition Incentives Program (CRP TIP), which helps with access to land for beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers. Both efforts help advance equity and access to USDA programs and agriculture.
Streamlined Delivery of Emergency Relief Programs Is Win-Win for USDA and Agricultural Producers
Fri Aug 5, 2022 03:30 PM ESTWASHINGTON, Aug. 4, 2022 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has processed more than 255,000 applications for the new Emergency Relief Program (ERP). USDA has made approximately $6.1 billion, to date, in payments to commodity and specialty crop producers to help offset eligible losses from qualifying 2020 and 2021 natural disasters. By breaking-down agency barriers, using existing data across USDA and pre-filled applications, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) in cooperation with the Risk Management Agency (RMA) has been able to expediently provide economic relief and save producers and staff over a million hours of time.
USDA Farm Service Agency in Georgia to Host July 28 Virtual Meeting on Hurricane & Drought Preparedness
Wed Jul 20, 2022 10:00 AM US/EasternATHENS, Ga., July 18, 2022 – With the 2022 Hurricane season officially underway, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director, Arthur Tripp, invites agricultural producers and industry stakeholders to join him in a virtual meeting to discuss what producers need to do before, during, and after the impact of a hurricane. Tripp and FSA program specialists will provide an overview of current disaster assistance programs, required loss of documentation, and related information needed when conducting business with FSA following a natural disaster event. The virtual meeting is free, open to the public, and can be attended on Thursday, July 28, 2022 at 10 a.m. eastern by joining the meeting online. To RSVP and receive the virtual meeting link for this event, please email GASED@usda.gov.
USDA Encourages Georgia Producers to File Crop Acreage Reports
Tue Jul 12, 2022 02:45 PM US/EasternAthens, Ga, July 7, 2022 – Agricultural producers in Georgia who have not yet completed their crop acreage reports after planting should make an appointment with their U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) county office before the applicable deadline for the specific crop. The next crop reporting deadline that impacts most crop producers including those who have perennial forage crops is July 15.
To Date, USDA Has Issued $106.8 Million in Emergency Relief Program Payments to Georgia Agricultural Producers
Wed Jul 6, 2022 09:30 AM US/EasternATHENS, Ga., JULY 5, 2022 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently announced, agricultural producers nationwide have already received more than $4 billion through the Emergency Relief Program (ERP), representing nearly 67% of the more than $6 billion projected to be paid through this phase of the program. Eligible producers in Georgia have received $106.8 Million in funding to date. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) mailed out pre-filled applications in late May to producers with crop insurance who suffered losses due to natural disasters in 2020 and 2021. Commodity and specialty crop producers have until July 22 to complete applications.
Farm Service Agency Now Accepting Nominations for Farmers and Ranchers to Serve on Local County Committees
Wed Jun 15, 2022 06:00 PM ESTCITY, STATE, JUNE 15, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is now accepting nominations for county committee members. Elections will occur in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA) for members. LAAs are elective areas for FSA committees in a single county or multi-county jurisdiction. This may include LAAs that are focused on an urban or suburban area.
USDA to Allow Producers to Request Voluntary Termination of Conservation Reserve Program Contract
Mon Jun 6, 2022 03:00 PM ESTGeorgia, June 2, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will allow Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) participants who are in the final year of their CRP contract to request voluntary termination of their CRP contract following the end of the primary nesting season for fiscal year 2022. Participants approved for this one-time, voluntary termination will not have to repay rental payments, a flexibility implemented this year to help mitigate the global food supply challenges caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and other factors. Today, USDA also announced additional flexibilities for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).