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
Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM
·
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
January 21, 2026 11:50 AM
·
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:39 PM
·
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:25 PM
·
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
·
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
January 20, 2026 11:48 AM
·
