Farm Bureau Economist Details Enrollment Process for USDA Specialty Crop Relief Program

AFBF economist Danny Munch joins us to break down the program’s eligibility requirements and payment structure.

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.

Related Stories
Rising production underscores the importance of marketing discipline and margin protection as milk supplies expand.
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.
More than 1,100 residents and farmers have signed a letter urging Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins to step in, saying the proposal threatens irrigation supplies and long-term farm viability in the region.
Higher yields are cushioning lower acreage, but reduced production could support firmer potato prices into 2026.
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg told RFD-TV News that we can only guess what Congress will do down the road. Still, the USDA recognizes its responsibility to spend resources efficiently and effectively.
Tight feeder supplies and lower placements indicate continued support for the cattle market, with regional impacts heightened in Texas by reduced feeder imports.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The Washington State Tree Fruit Association says crop quality looks promising despite ongoing drought conditions.
New Fed surveys show farmland values remain historically high, though some Upper Midwest markets are beginning to soften.
Rep. Vicente Gonzalez says producers are concerned about the potential impact on cattle operations and livestock values.
A marriage into a South Georgia farm family sparked a lifelong commitment to agriculture.
Greg and Janis Thoren earned the honor for their conservation-minded approach to raising cattle and crops
Merck Animal Health shared insights on calf health at the Moly Manufacturing Beef and Greet.