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USDA Reminds Producers of Feb. 14 Deadline for Market Facilitation Program

Tue Feb 12, 2019 03:46 PM

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2019 – Agricultural producers have until Feb. 14, 2019, to sign up for USDA’s Market Facilitation Program (MFP), launched last year to help producers suffering from damages due to unjustified trade retaliation. Producers can apply without proof of yield but must certify 2018 production by May 1, 2019. Since its launch in September 2018, more than 864,000 producers have applied, supporting those hit hard with nearly $8 billion in estimated payments.
USDA to Host 2018 Farm Bill Implementation Listening Session

Tue Feb 12, 2019 02:25 PM

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2019 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Bill Northey announced that USDA is hosting a listening session for initial input on the 2018 Farm Bill. USDA is seeking public input on the changes to existing programs implemented by the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Risk Management Agency. Each agency will take into account stakeholder input when making discretionary decisions on program implementation.
USDA Designates Two Arkansas Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Mon Nov 19, 2018 08:51 AM

Emergency Support to Producers in Surrounding Counties/Border States Also Available
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated two Arkansas counties as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Greene and Mississippi counties who suffered losses due to excessive rain that occurred from Aug. 15 through Aug. 20, 2018, may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Reminds Producers of Disaster Program Deadlines

Tue Nov 13, 2018 11:00 AM

(COLUMBIA/Missouri), November 13, 2018 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Brent Hampy reminds Missouri producers who experienced losses from natural disasters during the 2017 and 2018 calendar years that they may be eligible for assistance through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) and Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP).
FSA County Committee Elections to Begin; Producers to Receive Ballots Week of Nov. 5

Tue Oct 30, 2018 10:48 AM

Farmers and Ranchers Have a Voice in Local Farm Program Decisions
COLUMBIA, MO, Oct. 30, 2018 – Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Brent Hampy today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin mailing ballots to eligible agricultural producers for the 2018 FSA county committee elections on Monday, Nov. 5, 2018. Producers must return ballots to their local FSA offices by Dec. 3, 2018, to ensure their vote is counted.
USDA Designates 38 Missouri Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Fri Oct 26, 2018 09:16 AM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 25, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated 38 Missouri counties as primary natural disaster areas. Producers who suffered losses due to a recent drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates Cass County, Missouri, as a Primary Natural Disaster Area

Mon Oct 22, 2018 04:09 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 19, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated Cass County, Missouri, as a primary natural disaster area. Producers who suffered losses due to a recent drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Issues Safety-Net and Conservation Payments to Missouri Farmers

Thu Oct 18, 2018 05:06 PM

(COLUMBIA, MISSOURI) -- Oct. 18, 2018 – USDA Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director, Brent Hampy, announced that more than $86 million will be paid to Missouri farms that enrolled in Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) for 2017 market downturns. Additionally, Missouri FSA will distribute more than $102 million in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) rental payments to landowners for their commitment to conservation stewardship.
USDA Offers Secure, Convenient Online Business Options

Wed Oct 17, 2018 12:57 PM

COLUMBIA, MISSOURI – October 16, 2018 - Farmers, ranchers and agricultural producers in Missouri have new online options to access U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs. Through USDA’s new streamlined process producers can now register, track and manage their applications for the Market Facilitation Program (MFP) and 2017 Wildfires Hurricanes Indemnity Program (2017 WHIP) on the secure and convenient https://www.farmers.gov/sign-in.
USDA Designates Three Kansas Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Wed Oct 17, 2018 12:43 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 15, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated three Kansas counties as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Anderson, Brown and Linn counties who suffered losses due to a recent drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates Wayne County, Iowa, as a Primary Natural Disaster Area

Wed Oct 17, 2018 12:38 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 15, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated Wayne County, Iowa, as a primary natural disaster area. Producers who suffered losses due to a recent drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates Eight Missouri Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Wed Oct 17, 2018 12:34 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 15, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated eight Missouri counties as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Cedar, Cole, Dallas, Greene, Hickory, Laclede, Polk and St. Clair counties who suffered losses due to a recent drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
Trump Administration Appoints Brent Hampy to Serve as State Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Missouri

Fri Sep 28, 2018 01:50 PM

COLUMBIA, Mo. – September 28, 2018- The Trump Administration recently appointed Brent Hampy as the new State Executive Director for the USDA Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA). Hampy will join the Missouri FSA team on Monday, Oct. 1.
USDA Launches Trade Mitigation Programs

Tue Sep 4, 2018 03:30 PM

(Washington, D.C., September 4, 2018) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today launched the trade mitigation package aimed at assisting farmers suffering from damage due to unjustified trade retaliation by foreign nations. Producers of certain commodities can now sign up for the Market Facilitation Program (MFP), while USDA will also begin to purchase identified commodities under a food purchase and distribution program. Additionally, USDA has begun accepting proposals for the Agricultural Trade Promotion Program (ATP), which will help American farmers find and access new markets for their products. In total, USDA will authorize up to $12 billion in programs, consistent with World Trade Organization obligations.
USDA Designates Eight Kansas Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Thu Aug 30, 2018 11:03 AM

Emergency Support to Producers in Surrounding Counties/Border States Also Available
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated eight counties in Kansas as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Atchison, Graham, Lane, Marshall, Nemaha, Scott, Sherman and Washington counties who suffered losses due to drought, hail, high winds, excessive rain, flooding or lightning, may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates 12 Missouri Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Thu Aug 30, 2018 10:52 AM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated 12 Missouri counties as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Audrain, Barry, Barton, Boone, Callaway, Cooper, Dade, Jasper, Lawrence, Moniteau, Monroe and Newton counties who suffered losses due to recent drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates Four Missouri Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Wed Aug 29, 2018 01:54 PM

Emergency Support to Producers in Surrounding Counties/Border States Also Available
WASHINGTON, Aug. 28, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated four counties in Missouri as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Clark, Jackson, Lewis and Worth counties who suffered losses due to drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
Low-Interest Loans Available for Agricultural Producers in Missouri Impacted by Natural Disasters

Wed Aug 29, 2018 12:51 PM

COLUMBIA, MO, Aug. 23, 2018 — Missouri agricultural producers who lost property due to recent natural disasters may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) physical loss loans. The Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers these low-interest loans for losses caused by high winds and hail that occurred on July 19 through July 21, 2018. Approval is limited to applicants who suffered severe physical losses only, including the loss of buildings and livestock.
USDA Announces Details of Assistance for Farmers Impacted by Unjustified Retaliation

Tue Aug 28, 2018 09:05 AM

(Washington, D.C., August 27, 2018) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced details of actions the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will take to assist farmers in response to trade damage from unjustified retaliation by foreign nations. President Donald J. Trump directed Secretary Perdue to craft a short-term relief strategy to protect agricultural producers while the Administration works on free, fair, and reciprocal trade deals to open more markets in the long run to help American farmers compete globally. As announced last month, USDA will authorize up to $12 billion in programs, consistent with our World Trade Organization obligations.
USDA Designates Two Kansas Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Fri Aug 17, 2018 04:33 PM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 17, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated two counties in Kansas as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Doniphan and Jefferson counties who suffered losses due to drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates Four Oklahoma Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Fri Aug 17, 2018 04:33 PM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 17, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated four counties in Oklahoma as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Delaware, Mayes, Nowata and Rogers counties who suffered losses due to drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates Two Iowa Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Fri Aug 17, 2018 04:25 PM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 17, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated two counties in Iowa as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Appanoose and Van Buren counties who suffered losses due to drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates Six Missouri Counties as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Fri Aug 17, 2018 04:19 PM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 17, 2018 — Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue designated six counties in Missouri as primary natural disaster areas. Producers in Atchison, Clay, Holt, Knox, Lafayette and Platte counties who suffered losses due to drought may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans.
USDA Designates Davis County in Iowa as Primary Natural Disaster Area

Tue Aug 14, 2018 11:10 AM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2018 — Agricultural producers in Davis County, Iowa, who suffered losses and damages due to a recent drought, may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans. The loans are made available under the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue.
USDA Designates Two Counties in Oklahoma as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Tue Aug 14, 2018 11:01 AM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2018 — Agricultural producers in Craig and Ottawa counties in Oklahoma, who suffered losses and damages due to a recent drought, may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans. The loans are made available under the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue.
USDA Designates Eight Counties in Kansas as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Tue Aug 14, 2018 10:43 AM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2018 — Agricultural producers in Cherokee, Douglas, Franklin, Johnson, Labette, Leavenworth, Miami and Wyandotte counties in Kansas, who suffered losses and damages due to a recent drought, may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans. The loans are made available under the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue.
USDA Designates 25 Counties in Missouri as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

Tue Aug 14, 2018 10:36 AM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2018 — Agricultural producers in Missouri who suffered losses and damages due to recent drought on two separate occasions may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans. The loans are made available under the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue.
Deadline Approaches for Continuous Conservation Reserve Program Enrollment

Fri Aug 10, 2018 11:34 AM

WASHINGTON, August 7, 2018 — Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Richard Fordyce reminded producers today that the deadline to sign up for enrollment in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is Friday, Aug. 17, 2018.
USDA Opens Election Period for Seed Cotton Program

Wed Aug 1, 2018 04:42 PM

WASHINGTON, July 30, 2018 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that seed cotton producers, who want to participate in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2018 crop year, may now submit applications. The signup period begins today and ends on Dec. 7, 2018.
Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) Educational Tool Available for Farms with Generic Base Acres that Planted Seed Cotton

Thu Jul 5, 2018 04:19 PM

July 5, 2018 —The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is notifying farmers with generic base acres that planted seed cotton that a new tool is available to assist them in understanding how the new seed cotton program may affect their FSA payments. It helps a producer make decisions on how to allocate generic base acres to other covered crops based on a producer’s planting history.
USDA to Help Producers Prepare for Addition of Seed Cotton to Two Key Safety Net Programs

Mon Jun 25, 2018 02:29 PM

Information to Help Farmers and Ranchers Select the Coverage Options that Fit Their Needs
WASHINGTON, June 25, 2018 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is sending acreage history and yield reports to agricultural producers with generic base acres covered by the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs. This information will help producers decide the best options for how to allocate generic base acres, given the addition of seed cotton as a covered commodity in the programs.
USDA Extends Application Deadline for Dairy Margin Protection Program to June 22

Wed Jun 13, 2018 11:29 AM

WASHINGTON, June 12, 2018 – U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today announced the re-enrollment deadline for the Margin Protection Program (MPP) for Dairy will be extended until June 22, 2018. The new and improved program protects participating dairy producers when the margin – the difference between the price of milk and feed costs – falls below levels of protection selected by the applicant. USDA has already issued more than $89 million for margins triggered in February, March, and April, and USDA offices are continuing to process remaining payments daily.
USDA Resumes Continuous Conservation Reserve Program Enrollment

Fri Jun 1, 2018 04:21 PM

WASHINGTON, June 1, 2018 – As part of a 33-year effort to protect sensitive lands and improve water quality and wildlife habitat on private lands, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will resume accepting applications for the voluntary Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Eligible farmers, ranchers, and private landowners can sign up at their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office between June 4 and Aug. 17, 2018.
USDA Partners with Texas A&M to Help Veterans Seeking Agriculture Loans and Careers

Fri Jun 1, 2018 09:54 AM

(Dallas, TX, May 31, 2018) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced a partnership between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Texas A&M’s AgriLife Extension Service to help military veterans obtain loans and pursue careers as farmers and ranchers. Secretary Perdue joined local dignitaries, members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and community leaders at the Dallas Farmers Market to unveil the new pilot program.
USDA Reopens Application Period for Producers Recovering from Cattle Loss, Other Disasters

Thu May 31, 2018 02:20 PM

WASHINGTON, May 31, 2018 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin accepting disaster assistance program applications on June 4 from agricultural producers who suffered livestock, honeybees, farm-raised fish and other losses due to natural disasters.
Dairy Farmers Have Until June 1 to Apply for Improved Safety Net under Margin Protection Program

Fri May 25, 2018 02:12 PM

WASHINGTON, May 25, 2018 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds dairy farmers of the June 1 deadline to enroll in the improved Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy). Many producers will see payments in early June, depending on the coverage they elect.
FSA County Committee Nominations Launch June 15

Wed May 23, 2018 04:12 PM

WASHINGTON, May 22, 2018 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) encourages America’s farmers and ranchers to nominate candidates to lead, serve and represent their community on their local county committee. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will accept nominations for county committee members beginning Friday, June 15, 2018.
Stakeholder Announcement: FSA Releases Signup Information for Tree Assistance Program

Mon May 14, 2018 03:53 PM

May 14, 2018 – USDA’s Farm Service Agency recently released signup information for the Tree Assistance Program, a nationwide program that provides orchardists and nursery tree growers with cost share assistance to replant eligible trees, bushes, and vines following a natural disaster.
Secretary Perdue Names FSA Administrator

Fri May 11, 2018 03:04 PM

(Washington, D.C., May 11, 2018) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today the appointment of Richard Fordyce to serve as Administrator of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA). In his role, Fordyce will provide leadership for FSA and its mission to support agricultural production across America through a network of over 2,100 county and 50 state offices.
Stakeholder Announcement: FSA Reminds Producers of May 31 Deadline for Cotton Ginning Cost Share Program

Thu May 10, 2018 04:15 PM

USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is reminding producers of the May 31 deadline for the Cotton Ginning Cost Share (CGCS) program. Through the program, cotton producers may receive a cost share payment, which is based on a producer’s 2016 cotton acres reported to FSA multiplied by 20 percent of the average ginning cost for each production region.
Low Interest Emergency Physical Loss Loans Available for 10 Arkansas Counties with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding Counties and States

Wed Apr 25, 2018 11:32 AM

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., April 25, 2018 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Steve Peterson today announced that physical loss loans are available for 10 counties in Arkansas. Farm operators who have suffered major physical losses caused by excessive rain, flash flooding, flooding, high winds and tornadoes occurring from Jan. 21, 2018, and continuing, may be eligible for emergency loans.
Farm Service Agency Makes Administrative Change to the Livestock Indemnity Program

Wed Apr 25, 2018 08:33 AM

CANADIAN, Texas, April 24, 2018 – Starting today, agricultural producers who have lost livestock to disease, resulting from a weather disaster, have an additional way to become eligible for a key U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) disaster assistance program. USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Bill Northey announced an administrative clarification nationwide to the Livestock Indemnity Program. In the event of disease, this change by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) authorizes local FSA county committees to accept veterinarian certifications that livestock deaths were directly related to adverse weather and unpreventable through good animal husbandry and management. The committees may then use this certification to allow eligibility for producers on a case-by-case basis for LIP.
USDA to Immediately Assist Producers for Qualifying Livestock, Honeybee and Farm-raised Fish Program Losses

Mon Apr 9, 2018 04:55 PM

$34 Million in Payments for 2017 Losses Part of Broad Suite of Programs Aiding Ag Operations
WASHINGTON, April 9, 2018 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will issue $34 million to help agricultural producers recover from 2017 natural disasters through the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP), which covers losses not covered by certain other USDA disaster assistance programs. These payments are being made available today, and they are part of a broader USDA effort to help producers recover from hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, wildfires and drought. A large portion of this assistance will be made available in federally designated disaster areas.
USDA Reopens Enrollment for Improved Dairy Safety Net Tool

Tue Apr 3, 2018 02:52 PM

WASHINGTON, April 3, 2018 - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue is encouraging dairy producers to consider enrolling in the new and improved Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy), which will provide better protections for dairy producers from shifting milk and feed prices. With changes authorized under the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) has set the enrollment period to run from April 9, 2018 to June 1, 2018.
USDA Designates Eight Counties in Missouri as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Mon Mar 26, 2018 02:54 PM

WASHINGTON, March 23, 2018 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated eight counties in Missouri as primary natural disaster areas due to losses and damages caused by a recent drought. Those counties are Butler, Franklin, Lincoln, Maries, St. Charles, Warren, Webster and Wright.
USDA Designates 61 Counties in Arkansas as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Wed Mar 14, 2018 04:25 PM

WASHINGTON, March 14, 2018 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated 61 counties in Arkansas as primary natural disaster areas due to losses and damages caused by a recent drought. Those counties are:
USDA Helps Cotton Producers Maintain, Expand Domestic Market

Mon Mar 5, 2018 09:38 AM

(MEMPHIS, TN, March 3, 2018) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced at the 66^th Annual Mid-South Farm and Gin Show the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking action to assist cotton producers through a Cotton Ginning Cost Share (CGCS) program in order to expand and maintain the domestic marketing of cotton.
Secretary Perdue Statement on Confirmation of Bill Northey for Key USDA Post

Tue Feb 27, 2018 02:04 PM

(Washington, D.C., February 27, 2018) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today applauded the Senate’s long-awaited confirmation of Bill Northey to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Northey will serve as Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Service (FFAS).
USDA Announces a Near-Record Year for Farm Loans

Fri Jan 19, 2018 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19, 2018 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced another year of high activity in its farm loan programs. Hard-working farm families across the country accessed nearly $6 billion in new credit, either directly or guaranteed through commercial lenders in 2017. At year end, FSA was assisting more than 120,000 family farmers with loans totaling just over $25 billion.
Perdue Names Appointees to the Missouri USDA Farm Service Agency State Committee

Thu Jan 18, 2018 12:49 PM

Columbia, Mo., Jan. 17, 2018 - U. S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue recently announced the individuals who will serve on the Missouri USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) state committee. The state committee is responsible for the oversight of farm programs and county committee operations, resolving appeals from the agriculture community, and helping to keep producers informed about FSA programs.
FSA County Committee Elections to Begin; Producers to Receive Ballots Week of Nov. 6

Wed Nov 8, 2017 04:32 PM

COLUMBIA, MO, Nov. 7, 2017 – Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting State Executive Director Kim Viers today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin mailing ballots to eligible farmers and ranchers for the 2017 FSA County Committee elections on Monday, Nov. 6, 2017. Producers must return ballots to their local FSA offices by Dec. 4, 2017, to ensure that their vote is counted.
Trump Administration Appoints Richard Fordyce to Serve as State Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Missouri

Wed Nov 8, 2017 04:25 PM

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Nov. 7, 2017- The Trump Administration recently appointed Richard Fordyce as the new State Executive Director (SED) for the USDA Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA). Fordyce will join the Missouri FSA team on Monday, Nov. 13.
USDA Announces Enrollment Period for Safety Net Coverage in 2018

Mon Oct 30, 2017 04:40 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2017 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that starting Nov. 1, 2017, farmers and ranchers with base acres in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) safety net program may enroll for the 2018 crop year. The enrollment period will end on Aug. 1, 2018.
USDA Designates Four Counties in Iowa as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Missouri

Fri Oct 27, 2017 02:19 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2017 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated Davis, Henry, Keokuk and Van Buren counties in Iowa as primary natural disaster areas due to a recent drought.
USDA Issues Safety-Net Payments to Missouri Farmers

Wed Oct 25, 2017 04:37 PM

COLUMBIA, Mo., Oct. 25, 2017 – USDA Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting State Executive Director Kimberly Viers announced that approximately 60,000 Missouri farms that enrolled in safety-net programs established by the 2014 Farm Bill will receive financial assistance for the 2016 crop year. The programs, known as Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC), are designed to protect against unexpected drops in crop prices or revenues due to market downturns.
Low Interest Emergency Physical Loss Loans Available for 10 Iowa Counties with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding Counties and States

Wed Oct 25, 2017 04:25 PM

DES MOINES, Iowa, Oct. 25, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Steven J. Peterson today announced that physical loss loans are available for 10 counties in Iowa as a result of four separate disaster events. Farm operators who have suffered major physical losses caused by excessive rain, flash flooding, flooding, hail, high winds, lightning and tornados may be eligible for emergency loans.
USDA Designates Two Counties in Iowa as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Missouri

Wed Oct 18, 2017 08:57 AM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2017 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated Adair and Ringgold counties in Iowa as primary natural disaster areas due to a recent drought.
USDA Processing Pending Conservation Reserve Program Continuous Enrollment Offers; Acceptance of Most 2018 Offers Temporarily Suspended

Fri Oct 6, 2017 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 6, 2017 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that it will process many pending eligible offers for land enrollment in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), and it will temporarily suspend accepting most new offers until later in the 2018 fiscal year.
USDA Issues Farm Safety Net and Conservation Payments; Total Exceeds $9.6 Billion

Tue Oct 3, 2017 04:46 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2017 – Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today announced that over $9.6 billion in payments will be made, beginning this week, to producers through the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Conservation Reserve (CRP) programs. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is issuing approximately $8 billion in payments under the ARC and PLC programs for the 2016 crop year, and $1.6 billion under CRP for 2017.
USDA Designates Three Counties in Iowa as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Missouri

Tue Oct 3, 2017 04:37 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2017 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated Appanoose, Mahaska and Monroe counties in Iowa as primary natural disaster areas due to a recent drought.
Low Interest Emergency Physical Loss Loans Available for 10 Iowa Counties with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Tue Sep 26, 2017 09:51 AM

DES MOINES, Iowa, Sept. 26, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Steven J. Peterson today announced that physical loss loans are available for 10 counties in Iowa, due to four separate disaster events. Farm operators who have suffered major physical losses caused by excessive rain, flash flooding, flooding, hail, high winds, lighting and tornadoes that occurred from June 22 through Aug. 18, 2017, may be eligible for emergency loans.
Dairy Producers Can Enroll for 2018 Coverage, Secretary Allows Producers to Opt Out

Thu Aug 31, 2017 04:43 PM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 31, 2017 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced that starting Sept. 1, 2017, dairy producers can enroll for 2018 coverage in the Margin Protection Program (MPP-Dairy). Secretary Sonny Perdue has utilized additional flexibility this year by providing dairy producers the option of opting out of the program for 2018.
Low Interest Emergency Physical Loss Loans Available for Three Arkansas Counties with Assistance to Producers in Missouri

Mon Aug 28, 2017 12:48 PM

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Aug. 28, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Chris Beyerhelm today announced that physical loss loans are available for three counties in Arkansas. Farm operators who have suffered major physical losses caused by hail, high winds and a tornado that occurred between May 11 and June 23, 2017, may be eligible for emergency loans.
Low Interest Emergency Physical Loss Loans Available for Nine Iowa Counties with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Fri Jul 21, 2017 03:00 PM

DES MOINES, Iowa, July 21, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Chris Beyerhelm today announced that physical loss loans are available for nine counties in Iowa. Farm operators who have suffered major physical losses caused by excessive rain, flash flooding, flooding, hail, high winds, lightning and tornados that occurred from June 12 through June 17, 2017, may be eligible for emergency loans.
Missouri Producers Have Until Aug. 1 to Submit FSA County Committee Nominations

Mon Jul 17, 2017 03:32 PM

COLUMBIA, Mo., July 17, 2017 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Executive Director for Missouri, Kimberly Viers, today reminded farmers and ranchers that they have until Aug. 1, 2017, to nominate eligible candidates to serve on local FSA county committees.
Deadline to Enroll in Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC)

Thu Jul 13, 2017 04:07 PM

COLUMBIA, Mo., July 13, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting State Executive Director (SED) Kimberly Viers reminds farmers and ranchers that they have until Aug. 1 to enroll in Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and/or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2017 crop year. These programs trigger financial protections for participating agricultural producers when market forces cause substantial drops in crop prices or revenues.
USDA Designates 24 Counties in Missouri as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Wed Jul 12, 2017 02:03 PM

WASHINGTON, July 12, 2017 — In response to a request from Kimberly Viers, Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) acting State Executive Director in Missouri, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated 24 counties in Missouri as primary natural disaster areas due to losses and damages caused by excessive rainfall and flooding that occurred from April 24, 2017, through May 11, 2017.
USDA Farm Service Agency County Committee Nomination Period Begins June 15

Mon Jun 5, 2017 04:16 PM

WASHINGTON, June 5, 2017 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today that the nomination period for local Farm Service Agency (FSA) county committees begins on Thursday, June 15, 2017.
USDA Designates 23 Counties in Arkansas as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Fri May 26, 2017 04:05 PM

WASHINGTON, May 26, 2017 — In response to a request from Clayton Parr, Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) acting State Executive Director in Arkansas, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated 23 counties in Arkansas as primary natural disaster areas due to losses and damages caused by excessive rain, flash flooding, flooding, hail, high winds and lightning that occurred from April 1, 2017, and continues.
Low Interest Emergency Physical Loss Loans Available for 37 Arkansas Counties with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Wed May 24, 2017 01:57 PM

(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.), May 24, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Chris Beyerhelm today announced that physical loss loans are available for 37 counties in Arkansas. Farm operators who have suffered major physical losses caused by excessive rain, flash flooding, flooding, hail, high winds, lightning and tornadoes that occurred on April 1, 2017, and continuing, may be eligible for emergency loans.
Agriculture Secretary Perdue Reminds Farmers, Families and Small Businesses in Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas that USDA Offers Disaster Assistance Programs to Help

Mon May 15, 2017 04:31 PM

(Washington, D.C., May 15, 2017) Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue reminds farmers and ranchers, families and small businesses that were affected by the recent severe storms and flooding that USDA has several programs that provide assistance before, during and after disasters. USDA staff in the regional, State and county offices in the states of Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas are ready to help.
USDA Announces 2017 Cotton Loan Rate Differentials

Mon Apr 17, 2017 04:38 PM

WASHINGTON, April 17, 2017 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced the 2017-crop loan rate differentials for upland and extra-long staple cotton.
The differentials, also referred to as loan rate premiums and discounts, have been calculated based on market valuations of various cotton quality factors for the prior three years. This calculation procedure is identical to that used in past years. The Commodity Credit Corporation adjusts cotton loan rates by these differentials so that cotton loan values reflect the differences in market prices for color, staple length, leaf, extraneous matter, micronaire, length uniformity, and strength.
Census of Agriculture Countdown Begins for America's Farmers and Ranchers

Fri Apr 14, 2017 02:00 PM

WASHINGTON, March 16, 2017– America’s farmers and ranchers will soon have the opportunity to strongly represent agriculture in their communities and industry by taking part in the 2017 Census of Agriculture. Conducted every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), the census, to be mailed at the end of this year, is a complete count of all U.S. farms, ranches, and those who operate them.
Low Interest Emergency Physical Loss Loans Available for Five Missouri Counties with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Mon Apr 10, 2017 02:06 PM

COLUMBIA, Mo., April 10, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Chris Beyerhelm today announced that physical loss loans are available for five counties in Missouri. Farm operators who have suffered major physical losses caused by high winds and tornadoes that occurred from Feb. 28 through March 1, 2017, may be eligible for emergency loans.
Low Interest Emergency Physical Loss Loans Available for 15 Iowa Counties with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Fri Mar 31, 2017 09:19 AM

DES MOINES, Iowa, March 31, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Chris Beyerhelm today announced that physical loss loans are available for 15 counties in Iowa. Farm operators who have suffered major physical losses caused by hail, high winds, lightning and tornadoes that occurred on March 6, 2017, may be eligible for emergency loans.
USDA Designates Nine Counties in Arkansas as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Missouri

Thu Mar 23, 2017 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, March 22, 2017 — In response to a request from Clayton Parr, Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) acting State Executive Director in Arkansas, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated nine counties in Arkansas as primary natural disaster areas due to losses and damages caused by a recent drought.
USDA Expands Grasslands Conservation Program to Small-Scale Livestock Producers

Fri Jan 13, 2017 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Jan.13, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that USDA will accept over 300,000 acres in 43 states that were offered by producers during the recent ranking period for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Grasslands enrollment with emphasis placed on small-scale livestock operations. Through the voluntary CRP Grasslands program, grasslands threatened by development or conversion to row crops are maintained as livestock grazing areas, while providing important conservation benefits. Approximately 200,000 of the accepted acres were offered by small-scale livestock operations.
USDA Announces Farm Service Agency Cooperative Agreements

Thu Jan 12, 2017 03:54 PM

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12, 2017 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced cooperative agreements with 46 partners to educate producers, including those who have been historically underserved by USDA programs, about Farm Service Agency (FSA) programs that provide financial, disaster or technical support. Nearly $2.5 million will go to nonprofits and universities that will provide training and access to FSA programs, financial resources and other information.
USDA’s Farm Service Agency Expands Bridges to Opportunity Nationwide

Wed Jan 11, 2017 01:34 PM

WASHINGTON, Jan. 11, 2017 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced the expansion of a unique service for farmers and ranchers. FSA’s Bridges to Opportunity program provides a one-stop-shop that connects producers with resources, programs and educational services offered across the department, as well as from other USDA partner organizations. Bridges to Opportunity, which currently provides enhanced customer support to more than 150,000 customers in 20 states, will expand to serve customers across the country before the end of the month using fiscal year 2016 funds.
USDA Provides New Cost Share Opportunities for Organic Producers and Handlers

Wed Dec 21, 2016 03:46 PM

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that starting March 20, 2017, organic producers and handlers will be able to visit over 2,100 USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices to apply for federal reimbursement to assist with the cost of receiving and maintaining organic or transitional certification.
USDA Announces Additional Financial Incentives for Conservation Reserve Program Participants to Improve Forest Health and Enhance Wildlife Habitat

Fri Dec 9, 2016 03:33 PM

JACKSON, Miss., Dec. 9, 2016 – In an effort to improve wildlife habitat and the health of private forest lands, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced additional incentives available for Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) participants to actively manage forest lands enrolled in the program.
USDA Announces New Conservation Opportunities to Improve Water Quality and Restore Wildlife Habitat

Thu Dec 8, 2016 03:01 PM

DES MOINES, Iowa, Dec. 7, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will offer farmers and ranchers more opportunities to participate in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The announcement includes new CRP practices to protect water quality and adds an additional 1.1 million acres targeted to benefit wildlife, pollinators and wetlands.
USDA Partners with Farmers and Ranchers to Protect More Than 500,000 Acres of Working Grasslands

Wed Nov 30, 2016 01:47 PM

WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2016 – Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services Deputy Under Secretary Alexis Taylor today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will accept more than 504,000 acres that were offered by producers during the recent ranking period for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Grasslands enrollment. Through the voluntary CRP Grasslands program, grasslands threatened by development or conversion to row crops are maintained as livestock grazing areas, while providing important conservation benefits.
Farm Service Agency Extends Voting Deadline for County Committee Elections

Tue Nov 29, 2016 12:05 PM

(COLUMBIA, Mo.) Nov. 29, 2016 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director, Mark Cadle, today announced that the deadline to submit ballots for the 2016 County Committee Elections has been extended to ensure farmers and ranchers have sufficient time to vote. Eligible voters now have until Dec. 13, 2016, to return ballots to their local FSA offices. Producers who have not received their ballot should pick one up at their local FSA office.
USDA Designates 4 Counties in Missouri as Primary Natural Disaster Areas with Assistance to Producers in Surrounding States

Thu Nov 17, 2016 12:08 PM

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2016 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated Butler, Dunklin, Pemiscot and Stoddard counties in Missouri as primary natural disaster areas due to losses caused by excessive rainfall and flooding that occurred on Aug. 1, 2016, through Aug. 31, 2016.
USDA Resumes Incentives to Grow the Bioeconomy and Improve Forest Health

Thu Nov 10, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2016 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that $1.5 million will be available in fiscal year 2017 for farmers and foresters who harvest and deliver biomass for renewable energy. The funds are from the Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP), which was reauthorized by the 2014 Farm Bill.
FSA County Committee Elections to Begin; Producers to Receive Ballots Week of Nov. 7

Thu Nov 3, 2016 02:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2016 – Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin mailing ballots to eligible farmers and ranchers across the country for the 2016 FSA County Committee elections on Monday, Nov. 7, 2016. Producers must return ballots to their local FSA offices by Dec. 5, 2016, to ensure that their vote is counted.
USDA Announces Enrollment Period for Safety Net Coverage in 2017

Fri Oct 28, 2016 05:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 28, 2016 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that producers on farms with base acres under the safety net programs established by the 2014 Farm Bill, known as the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs, can begin visiting FSA county offices starting Nov. 1, 2016, to sign contracts and enroll for the 2017 crop year. The enrollment period will continue until Aug. 1, 2017.
USDA Announces Streamlined Guaranteed Loans and Additional Lender Category for Small-Scale Operators

Thu Oct 20, 2016 03:13 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 20, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the availability of a streamlined version of USDA guaranteed loans, which are tailored for smaller scale farms and urban producers. The program, called EZ Guarantee Loans, uses a simplified application process to help beginning, small, underserved and family farmers and ranchers apply for loans of up to $100,000 from USDA-approved lenders to purchase farmland or finance agricultural operations.
USDA Issues Safety-Net Payments to Missouri Farmers in Response to 2015 Market Downturn

Fri Oct 7, 2016 02:18 PM

(COLUMBIA, Mo.), Oct. 7, 2016 – USDA Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director, Mark Cadle, announced that many of the approximately 73,000 Missouri farms enrolled in safety-net programs established by the 2014 Farm Bill will receive financial assistance for the 2015 crop year. The programs, known as Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC), are designed to protect against unexpected drops in crop prices or revenues due to market downturns.
USDA Issues Safety-Net Payments to Farmers in Response to 2015 Market Downturn

Tue Oct 4, 2016 05:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 4, 2016 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that beginning today, many of the 1.7 million farms that enrolled in either the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs will receive safety-net payments due to market downturns during the 2015 crop year.
USDA to Purchase Surplus Cheese for Food Banks and Families in Need, Continue to Assist Dairy Producers

Thu Aug 25, 2016 01:00 PM

Department Also Will Extend Margin Protection Program for Dairy Enrollment Deadline
WASHINGTON, Aug. 23, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced plans to purchase approximately 11 million pounds of cheese from private inventories to assist food banks and pantries across the nation, while reducing a cheese surplus that is at its highest level in 30 years. The purchase, valued at $20 million, will be provided to families in need across the country through USDA nutrition assistance programs, while assisting the stalled marketplace for dairy producers whose revenues have dropped 35 percent over the past two years.
USDA Announces Safety Net Assistance for Milk Producers Due to Tightening Dairy Margins - May/June 2016 Average Margins Below $6

Thu Aug 4, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Aug. 4, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced approximately $11.2 million in financial assistance to American dairy producers enrolled in the 2016 Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy). The payment rate for May/June 2016 will be the largest since the program began in 2014. The narrowing margin between milk prices and the cost of feed triggered the payments, as provided for by the 2014 Farm Bill.
Missouri Producers Reminded of Nearing Deadline to Submit Nominations for Farm Service Agency County Committees

Mon Jul 25, 2016 01:00 PM

(COLUMBIA, MO), July 25, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director, Mark Cadle, today reminded farmers, ranchers and other agricultural producers that they have until Aug. 1, 2016, to nominate eligible candidates to serve on local FSA county committees.
USDA Reminds Missouri Producers of Aug. 1 Deadline to Enroll in Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage Programs

Fri Jul 22, 2016 01:00 PM

COLUMBIA, MO - July 22, 2016 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director, Mark Cadle reminds farmers and ranchers that they have until Aug. 1 to enroll in Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and/or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2016 crop year.
Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Proclaims August 7-13 “National Farmers Market Week”

Mon Jul 11, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, July 11, 2016 Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today signed a proclamation declaring Aug. 7-13, 2016, as National Farmers Market Week. This year marks the 17th annual National Farmers Market Week to honor and celebrate the important role that farmers markets play in local economies.
During National Pollinator Week, USDA Announces Key Measures to Improve Pollinator Health

Thu Jun 23, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, June 23, 2016 – Today, during National Pollinator Week and in advance of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) seventh annual Pollinator Week Festival, the USDA is announcing two initiatives in support of the President’s National Strategy to Promote the Health of Honeybees and Other Pollinators, announced just over one year ago. A review of USDA’s most popular conservation program found that farmers and ranchers across the country are creating at least 15 million acres of healthy forage and habitat for pollinators, and the department has also entered into a new partnership with leading honey bee organizations that will help to ensure future conservation projects continue to provide benefits to these important species.
Farm Service Agency County Committee Nomination Period Begins June 15

Tue Jun 14, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, June 14, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that the nomination period for farmers and ranchers to serve on local Farm Service Agency (FSA) county committees begins Wednesday, June 15, 2016.
USDA Provides Targeted Assistance to Cotton Producers to Share in the Cost of Ginning

Mon Jun 6, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, June 6, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) will provide an estimated $300 million in cost-share assistance payments to cotton producers through the new Cotton Ginning Cost-Share program, in order to expand and maintain the domestic marketing of cotton.
USDA Unveils New Improvement to Streamline Crop Reporting

Tue May 31, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, May 31, 2016 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that farmers and ranchers filing crop acreage reports with the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and participating insurance providers approved by the Risk Management Agency (RMA) now can provide the common information from their acreage reports at one office and the information will be electronically shared with the other location.
USDA Extends Deadline for Recording Farm Structure

Fri May 27, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, May 27, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced a one-time, 30-day extension to the June 1 deadline for recording farm organization structures related to Actively Engaged in Farming determinations. This date is used to determine the level of interest an individual holds in a legal entity for the applicable program year. Farming operations will now have until July 1 to complete their restructuring or finalize any operational change. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued the extension in response to farmers and ranchers who requested more time to comply, and to assure that everyone has enough time to provide their information under the new rules.
USDA Resumes Incentives to Grow and Harvest Biomass for Energy and Biobased Products

Mon May 23, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, May 23, 2016 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that incentives resume this month for farmers and foresters who grow and harvest biomass for renewable energy and biobased products. The funds come through the Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP), which was reauthorized by the 2014 Farm Bill.
USDA Announces Conservation Reserve Program Results

Thu May 5, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, May 5, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the enrollment of more than 800,000 acres in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Through CRP, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) helps farmers offset the costs of restoring, enhancing and protecting certain grasses, shrubs and trees that improve water quality, prevent soil erosion and strengthen wildlife habitat. Farmers’ and ranchers’ participation in CRP continues to provide numerous benefits to our nation, including helping reduce emissions of harmful greenhouse gases and providing resiliency to future weather changes.
USDA Offers New Loans for Portable Farm Storage and Handling Equipment

Fri Apr 29, 2016 01:00 PM

COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 29, 2016 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide a new financing option to help farmers purchase portable storage and handling equipment. Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini and Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Administrator Elanor Starmer announced changes to the Farm Storage Facility Loan (FSFL) program today during a local and regional food roundtable in Columbus, Ohio. The loans, which now include a smaller microloan option with lower down payments, are designed to help producers, including new, small and mid-sized producers, grow their businesses and markets.
USDA Establishes New Partnerships to Link Underserved Farmers to FSA Programs

Wed Apr 27, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, April 27, 2016 – The U.S. Department Agriculture (USDA) today announced cooperative agreements with 55 partners to educate farmers and other producers that have been underserved by USDA programs historically about Farm Service Agency (FSA) programs that provide financial, disaster or technical support. Nearly $2.5 million will go to nonprofits, associations, universities, and foundations that will provide training and information on agricultural best practices, local networking opportunities, and more.
USDA Expands Safety-Net for Dairy Operations Adding Next-Generation Family Members

Tue Apr 12, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that dairy farms participating in the Margin Protection Program (MPP) can now update their production history when an eligible family member joins the operation. The voluntary program, established by the 2014 Farm Bill, protects participating dairy producers when the margin – the difference between the price of milk and feed costs – falls below levels of protection selected by the applicant.
USDA Financial Assistance Available to Help Organic Farmers Create Conservation Buffers

Fri Feb 26, 2016 01:00 PM

LACROSSE, Wis., Feb. 26, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced its intent to assist organic farmers with the cost of establishing up to 20,000 acres of new conservation buffers and other practices on and near farms that produce organic crops. USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs, Brad Pfaff, issued the announcement today at the Midwest Organics and Sustainable Education Service conference in La Crosse, Wis.
Missouri Producers Urged to Consider Risk Protection Coverage before Spring Crop Sales Deadline

Thu Feb 18, 2016 01:00 PM

(COLUMBIA, Mo.), Feb. 18, 2016 –USDA Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director Mark Cadle, reminds producers to review available USDA crop risk protection options, including federal crop insurance and Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) coverage, before the deadline of March 15. This deadline applies to forage and pasture, as well as spring-seeded crops, including most produce.
USDA Sees Strong Demand for Conservation Reserve Program

Thu Feb 11, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Feb. 11, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is reminding farmers and ranchers that the competitive sign-up deadline for its most popular voluntary conservation program, the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), is Feb. 26, 2016. This will be one of the most competitive general sign-up periods in history, in part due a statutory limit on the number of acres that can be enrolled in the program. The most competitive applications will be those that combine multiple conservation benefits, such as water quality and wildlife habitat.
USDA To Offer Certificates for Farm Commodities Pledged to Marketing Loans

Wed Feb 3, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that producers who have crops pledged as collateral for a marketing assistance loan can now purchase a commodity certificate that may be exchanged for the outstanding loan collateral. The authority is provided by the 2016 Consolidated Appropriations Act, legislation enacted by Congress in December. Commodity certificates are available beginning with the 2015 crop in situations where the applicable marketing assistance loan rate exceeds the exchange rate. Currently, the only eligible commodity is cotton.
USDA Expands Microloans to Help Farmers Purchase Farmland and Improve Poverty

Tue Jan 19, 2016 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19, 2016 – Agriculture Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin offering farm ownership microloans, creating a new financing avenue for farmers to buy and improve property. These microloans will be especially helpful to beginning or underserved farmers, U.S. veterans looking for a career in farming, and those who have small and mid-sized farming operations.
USDA StrikeForce Initiative Invests $23.5 Billion in Rural Communities, Expands to Four New States

Fri Jan 15, 2016 01:00 PM

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Jan. 15, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the expansion of the Department's StrikeForce for Rural Growth and Opportunity Initiative into high-poverty counties in Florida, Missouri, Montana, and Ohio. Launched in 2010, more than 1,500 StrikeForce partnerships have already helped USDA support nearly 190,000 projects and invest $23.5 billion in high-poverty areas in rural America.
USDA Shares 2015 Results: Building a Stronger Rural America through Partnership, Progress and Promise

Tue Dec 22, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Dec. 22, 2015 – This year, millions of rural businesses and families were positively impacted by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) investments in their communities. Today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack released a list of USDA's top achievements in 2015, demonstrating USDA's efforts to help farmers and ranchers bring their products to tables domestically and abroad, build critical infrastructure in America's rural areas, conserve our nation's natural resources through long-lasting partnerships, and continuously work toward improving the lives of all Americans.
USDA Removes Farm Program Payments to Managers Not Actively Engaged in Farming

Tue Dec 15, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Dec. 15, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today finalized a rule to ensure that farm safety-net payments are issued only to active managers of farms that operate as joint ventures or general partnerships, consistent with the direction and authority provide by Congress in the 2014 Farm Bill. The action, which exempts family farm operations, closes a loophole where individuals who were not actively part of farm management still received payments.
USDA Begins 49th Enrollment Period for the Conservation Reserve Program

Sat Dec 5, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2015 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today reminded farmers and ranchers that the next general enrollment period for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) begins today, Dec. 1, 2015, and ends on Feb. 26, 2016. December 2015 also marks the 30th anniversary of CRP, a federally funded program that assists agricultural producers with the cost of restoring, enhancing and protecting certain grasses, shrubs and trees to improve water quality, prevent soil erosion and reduce loss of wildlife habitat.
USDA Improves Access to Capital for Tribal Farmlands with Multiple Owners

Sat Dec 5, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that it is expanding the availability of farm loans for Indian tribes and members to purchase tribal farmland that has multiple owners. The improved lending opportunities are possible due to new authority granted by the 2014 Farm Bill, which allows USDA to provide revolving loan funds to qualified intermediary lenders that can relend the funds to qualified tribes and individuals. The program becomes available today, Dec.1, 2015.
USDA Announces Enrollment Period for Safety Net Coverage in 2016

Thu Dec 3, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2015 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that producers who chose coverage from the safety net programs established by the 2014 Farm Bill, known as the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs, can begin visiting FSA county offices starting Dec. 7, 2015, to sign contracts to enroll in coverage for 2016. The enrollment period will continue until Aug. 1, 2016.
USDA Issues Safety-Net Payments to Missouri Farmers Facing Market Downturn

Thu Nov 12, 2015 01:00 PM

(COLUMBIA, Mo.), Nov. 12, 2015 – USDA Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director, Mark Cadle announced that approximately 9,981 Missouri farms who enrolled in the new safety-net programs established by the 2014 Farm Bill will soon begin receiving financial assistance for the 2014 crop year. The programs, known as Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC), are designed to protect against unexpected drops in crop prices or revenues due to market downturns.
USDA Reminds Dairy Producers of Nov. 20 Deadline

Tue Nov 10, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2015 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that almost half of all dairy farms in America have made their annual elections for 2016 coverage under the Margin Protection Program, and reminded producers who have not yet enrolled that they have until Nov. 20, to select coverage.
USDA to Provide Agricultural Credit Training, Expand Opportunities for Farmer Veterans and Beginning Farmers

Mon Nov 9, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced a partnership with the Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC) to conduct agricultural credit training sessions in the Midwest for military veterans and beginning farmers and ranchers. States under consideration to host the workshops include Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska.
FSA County Committee Elections to Begin; Producers to Receive Ballots Week of November 9

Thu Nov 5, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2015 – Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin mailing ballots to eligible farmers and ranchers across the country for the 2015 FSA County Committee elections on Monday, Nov. 9, 2015. Producers must return ballots to their local FSA offices by Dec. 7, 2015, to ensure that their vote is counted.
USDA Issue Safety-Net Payments to Farmers Facing Market Downturn

Tue Oct 27, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2015 – The U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that beginning today, nearly one half of the 1.7 million farms that signed up for either the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs will receive safety-net payments for the 2014 crop year.
Deadline to Enroll in Key Farm Bill Safety Net Programs Approaches

Thu Sep 3, 2015 01:00 PM

WASHINGTON, Sept. 3, 2015 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini reminds farmers and ranchers that they have until Sept. 30 to enroll in several key Farm Bill safety net programs – Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and the Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy).