From the Director’s Desk
After a hot dry summer, the weather sure has been cooperative this fall. Be sure to take some time to enjoy the mild weather and beautiful fall scenery.
There are a few important FSA dates to remember:
* Fall acreage reporting ends Nov. 15. Producers must report fall-seeded crops such as barley, wheat, rye, etc., as well as perennial hay crops. Call the office today to schedule an appointment to complete your 2017 report. Failure to report timely could mean late file fees or could jeopardize program coverage.
* Enrollment for the 2017 Margin Protection Program ends Dec. 16. Producers enrolled in 2016 must at least purchase coverage at the $4/90% level in 2017.
* Coverage for 2017 fruit trees, nut trees and perennial crops such as apples, blueberries, caneberries, cherries, grapes, and strawberries can be purchased through the Non-Insured Assistance Program until Nov. 20.
In addition to the above deadlines, some housekeeping reminders are important too:
* FSA is cleaning up our producer record database. If you have any unreported changes of address or zip code or an incorrect name or business name on file they need to be reported to our office. Changes in your farm operation, like the addition of a farm by lease or purchase, need to be reported to our office, as well. Producers participating in FSA and NRCS programs are required to timely report changes in their farming operation to the County Committee in writing and update their CCC-902 Farm Operating Plan.
* Agricultural producers are reminded to consult with FSA and NRCS before breaking out new ground for production purposes as doing so without prior authorization may put a producer’s federal farm program benefits in jeopardy. This is especially true for land that must meet Highly Erodible Land and Wetland Conservation provisions.
* Producers are encouraged to call their local FSA office to schedule an appointment to ensure maximum use of their time and to make sure FSA staff is available to tend to their important business needs. Call your local FSA office ahead of your visit to set an appointment and to discuss any records or documentation that might be needed during your appointment. To find your local FSA office, visit: http://offices.sc.egov.usda.
* The 2014 Farm Bill requires a customer receipt to be issued for any agricultural program assistance requested from FSA, the National Resources Conservation Service and Rural Development. Receipts include the date, summary of the visit and any agricultural information, program and/or loan assistance provided to an individual or entity. Electronic receipts for acreage reports will begin Aug. 1, 2016.
If you have questions or concerns, contact your local FSA office. Have a great week.
Donna W. Purdy, County Executive Director