Sign-Up Begins for USDA’s Dairy Margin Coverage Program

State Will Cover Premium Costs for Maryland Farmers Participating in Federal Program

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Today, farmers can begin signing up for the federal Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program at their local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) field office. Governor Larry Hogan included $1.5 million in his supplemental budget to pay 2019 premium costs for Maryland dairy farmers participating in the DMC program. Premiums will be paid directly from the Maryland Department of Agriculture to USDA FSA on behalf of Maryland producers.

“Dairy farmers across the country have been struggling with low milk prices and high feed costs for years,” said Secretary Joe Bartenfelder. “The state cost-share program gives Maryland producers an opportunity to receive much needed protection from the DMC program at no cost. I encourage all of our dairy farmers to visit their local FSA office and enroll today.”

The state cost-share program will cover premiums for Tier I production in 2019 (up to 5 million pounds of milk produced) at the $9.50 margin coverage level. The DMC program will provide coverage retroactive to January 1, 2019, with applicable payments following soon after enrollment.

For more information about the DMC program, visit the USDA website or contact your local USDA service center. To locate your local FSA office, visit farmers.gov/service-locator.

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