By Tyson Redpath, The Russell Group
USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue announced September 17 an expansion of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program 2 (CFAP2) to include rice grown in California. Applications for the program must be received by December 11. Several reports from the USDA Farm Service Agency encourage producers who have not applied to complete the application now to avoid missing the December 11 deadline. Due to COVID restrictions and staffing safeguards processing, applications may take longer than expected. The agency offers multiple options to apply which can be found on this website.
If you choose to sign up for CFAP2 through the Farm Service Agency, keep in mind that you can place your 2021 crop under loan at the same time.
All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or any other Service Center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment. During appointments, other business including marketing assistance loans may be conducted. Service Centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel, and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Visitors are also required to wear a face covering during their appointment. USDA will continue using Microsoft Teams to enable producers to meet with USDA Service Center staff virtually. Download step-by-step instructions for getting started via desktop, laptop, or mobile device.
