USDA has announced that tangerines are now eligible for a CFAP Category 1 direct payment of $.05 per pound. Eligibility is based on USDA’s determination that tangerines suffered a price reduction of greater than 5% during the January 15-April 15 timeframe due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Growers may submit their application, or submit a correction to a previously submitted application, online at www.farmers.gov/cfap before the August 28, 2020 deadline.
We have received several questions from growers about what varieties are considered to be a “tangerine” under CFAP. To-date, USDA has not provided a definition of tangerine or list of qualifying varieties. At this time, CCM recommends that growers make a reasonable determination as to whether or not their easy-peel/mandarin/hybrid variety is a tangerine. Further, we recommend that you work with your local FSA service center to submit your application to ensure your application is completed correctly.
If you have any questions, please contact CCM President Casey Creamer or Director of Government Affairs Alyssa Houtby at (559) 592-3790.