Between the 2018 Farm Bill that was signed into law last December and the recent announcement of an additional Market Facilitation Program (MFP), Kansas producers are anxiously awaiting more program details and enrollment information. Some FSA programs are already rolling out, like a Continuous CRP enrollment that began June 3 and the new Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program that begins June 17. Enhancements to the livestock disaster programs and increased farm loan limits have been implemented. And the updated Marketing Assistance Loan (MAL) program details have been announced, including increased nation loan rates for several commodities. Information about all programs can be seen at https://www.farmers.gov/farmbill. But the two programs with the most potential impact on producers—MFP and ARC/PLC—are still in the wings.

According to Kansas FSA State Executive Director David Schemm, the enrollment period for 2019 and 2020 ARC/PLC is not yet known. Initial news reports announced enrollment would begin in early September, but Schemm indicated that has not been finalized. “Before an enrollment period can begin, policy and training must be provided to all our employees. We are tentatively anticipating training in late summer, and excited about providing information to producers as soon as we’re able,” said Schemm. He also stated that Kansas FSA has partnered with Kansas State Research and Extension and program support and producer informational meetings in late summer and early fall will be a joint effort.

The second MFP was announced by USDA on May 23. Details known at this time can be read in this press release. Schemm said he understands the issues producers have with not knowing more specific program details, such as county rates and eligible acreage, and is just as eager as producers to learn more. He said Kansas FSA is proactively planning for MFP program rollout and enrollment, by contacting local ag partners to help disseminate information, scheduling producer informational meetings, and getting through as much workload as possible now in county offices. Producers are encouraged to follow https://www.farmers.gov/ for more information or contact your local FSA office or the Kansas FSA at 785-539-3531.