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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that specialty crop producers have an additional two days to apply for assistance to help offset higher marketing and production costs. Most notably, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) increased the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program payment limit from $125,000 to $900,000 per operation.
“NPC has been advocating for a meaningful increase in the payment limitations since the program’s announcement, and we are pleased that USDA has responded to our recommendations. We encourage impacted growers to take advantage of this opportunity to ensure the financial sustainability of their operations,” said NPC CEO Kam Quarles.
- The program’s payment limitation has been increased from $125,000 to $900,000.
- The deadline for applications has been extended by two days. Applications will now be accepted through Friday, Jan. 10, 2025.
- An additional $650 million in funding has been added, bringing the total funds available for specialty crop growers to $2.65 billion.
MASC helps specialty crop producers meet higher marketing costs related to:
- Perishability of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops and herbs.
- Specialized handling and transport equipment with temperature and humidity control.
- Packaging to prevent damage.
- Moving perishables to market quickly.
- Higher labor costs.
Producers can find more information on eligibility, how payments work and how to apply on the MASC program webpage. Interested producers should apply by Jan. 10 at their local USDA Service Center or online.
