Several dairy farmers have experienced frustration when applying for Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments related to acres planted to alfalfa mixes.
ProFarmer’s Jim Wiesemeyer says some of the issues are simply because farmers didn’t have all of their alfalfa acres certified with FSA. Others are frustrated because their forage mixes are being denied payment.
This week USDA issued clarification on the issue. Acreage reported as alfalfa is defined by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) as a stand that contains 60% or more alfalfa, even if it’s a forage mixture. A mixed forage, which does not qualify for an MFP payment, is that with less than 60% alfalfa.
The 2019 MFP includes alfalfa and a few other title-ineligible crops not included in the 2108 MFP.
Don’t forget, the deadline to apply for MFP payments is December 6, 2019. Visit your local FSA office to apply or download an application here.
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