LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD-TV) — Cotton producers are urged to contact their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office as the September 30 deadline approaches for program enrollment. Recent changes to the Stacked Income Protection Program (STAX), Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs stem from the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act signed into law on July 4, which updated reference prices for the 2025 crop year.
Typically, farmers choosing STAX were ineligible for ARC or PLC. However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) acknowledges that many may have chosen PLC had they been aware of the updated reference prices. The agency is allowing late enrollment in PLC, although acres switched out of STAX remain subject to a penalty equal to 60 percent of the premium, as acreage reports cannot be revised.
Producers enrolling seed cotton acres in PLC or ARC by September 30 will forfeit STAX payments. The USDA expects PLC payments for 2025 to be made next fall, while STAX payments will be announced in summer 2026. Once changes are made, growers cannot reverse their decision, even if STAX would have provided a larger payment.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: Cotton farmers should weigh potential PLC payments against STAX coverage and act before the September 30 deadline. Local FSA offices can help navigate the options and implications.
The University of Missouri Ag Policy Research Institute found that farmers with eligible base acres would see payments increase this year, primarily due to the rise in ARC and PLC. Economists estimate cotton payments will rise 177 percent, peanuts up 205 percent, and rice farmers will gain 222 percent.
Farm legal expert Roger McEowen reviews the history of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule and outlines how shifting definitions across multiple administrations have created regulatory confusion for landowners.
November 24, 2025 12:38 PM
·
These “USDA Foods” are provided to USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) nutrition assistance programs, including food banks that operate The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and are a vital component of the nation’s food safety net.
November 24, 2025 10:09 AM
·
Gary Hall, co-founder of Hollywood Impact Studios Rehabilitation, joined the program to discuss using agriculture to provide opportunities and mentorship for at-risk youth in Southern California.
November 21, 2025 02:25 PM
·
The agriculture workforce remains strong and diverse, offering meaningful pathways for students pursuing careers that support the food and farm economy.
November 21, 2025 02:13 PM
·
Screwworm.gov has targeted resources for a wide range of stakeholders, including livestock producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, pet owners, researchers, drug manufacturers, and the general public.
November 21, 2025 02:09 PM
·
Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association explains a new resource designed to help farmers comply with ESA-related pesticide label requirements.
November 21, 2025 01:56 PM
·
Supplemental Disaster Relief Program Stage Two will disburse around $16 billion, approved by Congress last year. Sign-ups begin Monday, and producers have until April to return applications.
November 21, 2025 11:48 AM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the USDA’s Stage Two Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, including application details, deadlines, and guidance for rural producers.
November 20, 2025 03:34 PM
·
November 20, 2025 02:04 PM
