The Agriculture Department will provide $2 billion in Commodity Credit Corporation funding to fruit, vegetable and nut growers through a new program Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Tuesday.
The Marketing Assistance Program for Specialty Crops aims to "assist specialty crop growers in maintaining a strong domestic supply and expanding market opportunities for their crops," according to an agency press release that provided no details on how the program would operate.
The release said details of the program, including eligibility and payment rates, will be spelled out in a notice of funding availability. USDA expects to start taking applications for the program in December.
The announcement of the program comes as lawmakers have given up on passing a new farm bill this year.
Specialty crop growers tend to have higher marketing costs "related to the tenderness and perishability of fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops and herbs," the release said. Many also require specialized equipment for handling and transport, unique packaging, higher labor costs and the need to move perishables to market quickly.
“From providing high-quality, nutritious, American-grown fruits, vegetables, and nuts to our nation and the world, to serving as economic pillars of their communities, specialty crop producers play a critical role in the success of U.S. agriculture,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in the release.
Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association, applauded the creation of the new program.
“This critical investment underscores a commitment to strengthening a sector vital to the nation’s food supply and economy and directly addresses the unique challenges faced by American growers," IFPA CEO Cathy Burns said in a statement. "IFPA looks forward to collaborating with USDA to ensure the program is implemented effectively, delivering meaningful support to growers and enhancing the availability of fresh, nutritious produce for consumers nationwide.”
Bob Mattive, a Colorado potato grower and the president of the National Potato Council, said the specialty crop sector "has faced a series of unforeseen challenges over the last four years. Today's USDA announcement recognizes these ongoing pressures and offers the opportunity for economic relief to impacted family farms."
The agency also announced a $140 million Commodity Storage Assistance Program to help bolster producers' access packinghouses, grain elevators or other storage facilities. High signups are expected in the Southeast due to Hurricanes Debbie, Helene and Milton, according to the release.
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