Marketing Assistance Specialty Crop Program Information Webinar Recording

If you were unable to attend our Marketing Assistance Specialty Crop Program Information Webinar for citrus growers a recording of the webinar is linked below.

WEBINAR RECORDING

DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR THIS PROGRAM IS JANUARY 8, 2025

WHAT IS MASC

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced the availability of $2 billion in assistance through the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crop (MASC) program. Payments for this Specialty Crop Producer program will go directly to those awarded a payout.

This program is intended to help specialty crop producers manage higher marketing costs related to various matters, such as higher labor costs, packaging to prevent damage, specialized handling and transportation costs, and the perishability of fruits.

MASC FACT SHEET

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1. How long till payment if I am awarded the money?

A1. Payment’s will be made after the program closes.

Q2. Can new producers for 2025 apply?

A2. Yes! New producers would use estimated revenue for the year. If you have been farming, please use sales from either 2023 or 2024 for the raw commodity you’ve produced on the applicable form.

Q3. If I lease a new block of land in 2025 but have farmed the past 3 years, am I considered a new producer?

A3. No.

Q4. If I had a young orchard in 2024 which produces for the first time and 2025 will be more in sales, can I use the 2025 year?

A4. No. If you had sales either in 2023 or 2024, you must use that number.

Q5. Can I apply as a sole proprietor?

A5. Yes! And as an LLC, General Partnership, or an S/C Corp.

Q6. If I had a crop insurance claim in ’23 or ’24, do I include that in revenue?

A6. Yes, you do!

Q7. The max income is $900,000 and we made more than that. Do I qualify?

A7. Yes, you just need to show proof that 75% or more of your income comes from farming.

Q8. How do I submit my application?

A8. You can email, submit online or drop off in person to your local FSA office.