WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — Relief is on the way for specialty crop growers facing rising production costs and negative margins.
Enrollment is now open for USDA’s Specialty Crop Assistance Program, which is rolling out an additional $1.6 billion in assistance to eligible producers.
American Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the program and what growers need to know before applying.
During his conversation with RFD News, Munch provided background on the assistance program and explained how payments will be calculated for participating producers.
The discussion also covered eligibility requirements, key limitations and exclusions, as well as the application process for growers seeking assistance.
U.S. produce growers face a structural disadvantage—cheaper imports driving down prices while rising labor costs squeeze margins. Without new policies or technology, profitability remains uncertain.
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