WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — Today marks the final day for dairy producers to enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program for 2026. Farmers who miss the deadline will not be eligible for any margin protection payments this year, even if milk prices decline further.
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Economist Danny Munch joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to break down the program.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Munch explained that DMC provides a safety net by making payments when the margin between the national all-milk price and average feed costs falls below a producer-selected coverage level. While the program hasn’t triggered many payments recently due to relatively favorable margins, Munch emphasized that enrollment still offers important protection against unexpected market swings.
Munch advised producers to review coverage options carefully to ensure they select the level that best fits their operation’s risk management needs.
Farmers can enroll in the 2026 Dairy Margin Coverage Program through their local USDA Farm Service Agency office by today’s deadline of Feb. 26. For more information, visit: www.usda.fsa.gov
New research shows that most farmers do not have a formal resiliency plan in place. Devin Fuhrman highlights how Nationwide’s Farm Risk Ready initiative supports farmers in building stronger, more resilient operations.
March 06, 2026 01:59 PM
·
The American Coalition for Ethanol reacts as the Farm Bill heads to a full House vote — while ethanol expansion, including year-round E15, is left out — as well as the USDA’s pursuit of global markets for ethanol.
March 06, 2026 01:45 PM
·
Hurd joined this week’s Champions of Rural America to review the proposed Farm Bill moving through the House and discuss its potential impact on rural communities and farmers across the country.
March 06, 2026 01:04 PM
·
Mexican livestock officials are emphasizing surveillance and inspection systems to preserve access to the U.S. cattle export market. Texas’ Bovina Feeders explains the rising stakes as the border stays closed.
March 06, 2026 11:32 AM
·
University of Arkansas’ Allen Szalanski discusses a news study on rice stink bugs, what it could mean for farmers, and pest management strategies for the future.
March 05, 2026 03:07 PM
·
Weak crop margins and tariff uncertainty are delaying machinery purchases and signaling slower capital investment across U.S. agriculture.
March 05, 2026 02:04 PM
·
