USDA extends milk loss program deadline

By Andi Anderson

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced an extension of the application deadline for the Milk Loss Program (MLP) until Monday, October 30, 2023. This extension offers additional time for eligible dairy farmers to apply for essential disaster recovery assistance caused by weather-related incidents.

The MLP, administered by the USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA), aims to compensate dairy producers who, as a result of qualifying weather events, were compelled to dispose of or withdraw milk from the commercial milk market in calendar years 2020, 2021, and 2022. Losses attributable to the consequences of these weather events, such as power outages, impassable roads, and infrastructure damages, are also eligible for compensation. The MLP enrollment opened on September 11, 2023, with the original deadline set for October 16, 2023.

FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux emphasized the importance of MLP benefits, particularly for dairy operations severely impacted by weather-related disasters. These benefits are vital in aiding their financial recovery, considering the significant challenges they faced in delivering or storing milk during these tumultuous years.

To apply for MLP, producers are required to submit several documents, including the FSA-376 Milk Loss Program Application, a milk marketing statement, a detailed written statement outlining the circumstances of milk removal, and any additional information specified by the regulations.

Applicants who haven't previously submitted required forms to FSA must do so within 60 days of the MLP application deadline. These forms include the Form AD-2047 (Customer Data Worksheet), Form CCC-902 (Farm Operating Plan for an individual or legal entity), Form CCC-901 (Member Information for Legal Entities if applicable), Form FSA-510 (Request for an Exception to the $125,000 Payment Limitation for Certain Programs if applicable), and Form CCC-860 (Socially Disadvantaged, Limited Resource, Beginning and Veteran Farmer or Rancher Certification if applicable).

Most producers are likely to have these necessary forms already on file, particularly those who have previously participated in FSA programs. Dairy farmers with any uncertainties or those wishing to confirm the status of their forms can reach out to their local USDA Service Center.

This extension ensures that dairy farmers in need of assistance have ample time to apply, offering support to a vital sector of the agricultural community. The USDA continues to make positive contributions to the lives of Americans by addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural industry.

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