As part of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), USDA is making $16 billion in direct payments available for producers who have suffered a five-percent-or greater price decline due to COVID-19.

Western Growers has summarized the key eligibility requirements, payment limitations and procedures for applying in a new CFAP Direct Payment Program Fact Sheet.

Producers were first able to apply for assistance beginning May 26, 2020, and applications will be accepted through August 28, 2020.

As of June 8, 2020, USDA has dispersed $1.4 billion in relief checks to more than 80,000 farmers and ranchers across the country. However, less than two percent of that money, just shy of $25 million, has been allocated to specialty crop producers.

Moreover, only $8 million has been distributed to specialty crop producers in our home states of Arizona, California, Colorado and New Mexico. The balance has gone to the livestock, dairy and non-specialty crop sectors of the agriculture industry.

Western Growers members are encouraged to explore the USDA direct payment program to determine eligibility.

For additional information, visit the USDA CFAP website, which includes all the information you’ll need to apply for the direct payment program.