The Farm Service Agency is preparing farmers and ranchers for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program direct payment sign-up. To sign-up, farmers will need to be in contact with their county FSA office to schedule an appointment. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are limited workers in offices. “Our county offices are doing business via phone, e-mail and being creative using online tools like Box,” said Joe Martin, state executive director, Minnesota Farm Service Agency. “We have a big workload, but we’re getting through it and getting it done.” Cattle producers and specialty crop growers who haven’t been eligible for assistance in the past will now be eligible for direct payments in this CFAP program. To prepare for sign-up, farmers can start gathering and understanding their recent sales and inventory. According to the USDA, an acreage report isn’t required at the time of application. The application process has not started at this time, but Martin said FSA offices can usually move quickly once rules are finalized. FSA reminds farmers to not send personal information to USDA before first initiating contact via phone for privacy and security purposes. On Thursday, USDA will host a webinar to assist farmers and ranchers.
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