USDA Bends Rules on Conservation Programs to Help Farmers, Livestock Producers Weather Drought

USDA announced additional steps to assist farmers and livestock producers suffering from one of the worst droughts seen in more than 70 years. During a media conference today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced changes to several conservation programs that will help livestock producers and he said the agency is working with insurance companies to provide a grace period on unpaid insurance premiums for producers that may have a financial hardship at the close of the crop year. “Beginning today, USDA will open opportunities for haying and grazing on lands enrolled in conservation programs while providing additional financial and technical assistance to help landowners through this drought,” said Vilsack. “President Obama and I are committed to getting help to producers as soon as possible and sustaining the success of America’s rural communities through these difficult times.” Learn more.