USDA Announces Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program
Published Friday, February 20, 2026
Last Friday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the creation of the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program, which gives clarity and direction on how the $1 billion set aside for specialty crops, sugar and other commodities will be distributed under the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program. Late last year, the $12 billion FBA package was established to serve as an economic “bridge,” supporting farmers until changes in reference prices and other commodity support programs take effect next year. USDA has provided a full list of eligible commodities for ASCF in its announcement.
According to the release, “ASCF payments are based on reported 2025 planted acres. Eligible farmers should ensure their 2025 acreage reporting is factual and accurate by 5 p.m. ET on March 13, 2026. Commodity-specific payment rates will be released by the end of March. Crop insurance linkage will not be required for the ASCF Program.”
Staff contact: Matthew Viohl, mviohl@cfbf.com.


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