Following a successful pilot program, FSA is now using a digital appointment platform across the agency to allow producers to make farm program or farm loan appointments online at their convenience.

NRCS Chief Colton L. Buckley told No-Till Farmer he is prioritizing field staff to improve field engagement and technical expertise.

The program will provide $11 billion in one-time bridge payments to row crop producers in response to temporary trade market disruptions and increased production costs.

In a post on X, Rollins said the USDA will re-open county offices and resume Farm Service Agency core operations, including critical services for farm loan processing, ARC/PLC payments and other programs.

The bill – supported by more than 300 farming stakeholders across the U.S. — would also prohibit the USDA from cancelling agreements or contracts with farmers, or organizations providing assistance to farmers, “unless there has been a failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the agreement or contract.

The FSA has provided an ECAP website that outlines the application process, eligibility requirements, payment rates and other information for producers.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated communities, homes, farms and businesses across parts of the Southeast, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has deployed staff to assist with response and recovery efforts.