The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is urging agricultural producers to meet upcoming deadlines for crucial safety net and disaster assistance programs, designed to help those affected by rising input costs and natural disasters.
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) highlighted that applications for the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) program close on August 7, 2026. The deadline for the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) is shortly after, on August 12, 2026.
Additionally, producers have until August 31, 2026, to review and potentially increase their base acre allocations for the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs. This opportunity, made possible by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, marks the first time such a review has been available since 2002. Producers needing more information should contact their local FSA county office.