The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched a significant financial assistance program for specialty crop farmers, allocating $1.625 billion to address challenges posed by elevated input costs and unfair trade practices from foreign competitors. This initiative, announced by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, aims to bolster the economic resilience of American specialty crop producers.
Enrollment Details
Farmers can begin enrolling in the Assistance for Specialty Crops Farmers (ASCF) program starting June 1, 2026. Those with a Login.gov account can access and submit their pre-filled applications online. For those preferring in-person enrollment, applications can be requested from local Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices starting June 8, 2026. The enrollment period will close on August 7, 2026.
Payments will be processed as applications are submitted and approved, with the first disbursements expected in the initial week of the signup period. The program is designed to provide timely financial support, allowing farmers to manage production and marketing costs effectively.
Program Eligibility and Application
Eligibility for the ASCF program is determined based on specialty crop acres reported to the FSA by April 24, 2026. The program excludes crops grown in controlled environments, except for mushrooms. While crop insurance is not mandatory, the USDA encourages farmers to utilize new risk management tools available under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.
For more information on eligible crops and payment calculations, producers are advised to visit the official USDA website or contact their local FSA office. The payment limitation for the ASCF program is set at $250,000 per producer.
Supporting American Agriculture
This program underscores the USDA’s commitment to supporting American farmers by mitigating the impact of international market disruptions and fostering domestic demand for U.S. produce. By streamlining the application process through the One Farmer, One File system, the USDA aims to expedite financial assistance to those in need.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
