How Economic Assistance for Farmers Will Be Distributed

The Continuing Resolution keeping the government fully funded through March 14th, also included economic aid for farmers experiencing one of the biggest income drops in many years.  In fact, over the past two years, USDA projects that farmers will experience the steepest two-year decline in net farm income in history.  Meanwhile, due to an ineffective safety net, government help for producers is slated to be at the lowest level since 1982.

“The “Economic Loss Assistance Program” set aside $10 billion in direct payments for farmers.  Farm Journal said while payment rates aren’t final yet, early estimates are out for various commodities.  Wheat farmers will receive $31.80 an acre, while the corn payment is estimated to be $43.80 per acre, while soybean payments are estimated at $30.61 per acre.

Twenty-one commodities are eligible for assistance.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com