USDA Extends Application Deadline for Dairy Margin Protection Program to June 22

The Department of Agriculture has again extended the enrollment period for the revamped Dairy Margin Protection Program.  The deadline, originally June first, is now June 22nd.  The improved program protects participating dairy producers when the margin – the difference between the price of milk and feed costs – falls below levels of protection selected by the applicant.

USDA has already issued more than $89 million for margins triggered in February, March, and April, and USDA offices are continuing to process remaining payments daily.  Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said of the first deadline extension that USDA received more than 500 new enrollments from dairy operations.  More than 21,000 American dairies have signed up for coverage.

However, Perdue said he is  “certain we can do better with this extra week and a half.”  The re-enrollment deadline was previously extended through June 8th. USDA says this will be the last opportunity for producers to take advantage of adjustments Congress made to MPP earlier this year.

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