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
Texas A&M 4-H Director Montza Williams joins for an update on the expected timeline for the program’s new facility and all the associated benefits.
October 07, 2025 01:56 PM
·
From tinkering with machines to building projects from scratch, students in the National FFA Organization develop skills to help shape future careers.
October 07, 2025 01:48 PM
·
Key signs of the U.S. beef herd’s recovery are improved pasture conditions, lower feed costs, and increased regulatory alignment and support for producers to implement targeted grazing practices.
October 07, 2025 12:35 PM
·
Dr. Mark Svoboda with the National Drought Mitigation Center discusses a new global drought report and resources to help operations increase drought resilience.
October 07, 2025 11:58 AM
·
Congress has just over a month of working days left for the year. Plan for uneven USDA service until funding is restored, and closely monitor Farm Bill talks, as avoiding Permanent Law before January 1 is the single biggest risk to markets and milk prices.
October 07, 2025 11:09 AM
·
Software developers at John Deere Digital are addressing challenges with their new Operations Center, which helps farmers make decisions on the fly.
October 06, 2025 11:51 AM
·
