Return to TFB Main Page
Return to Current Edition
Texas Agriculture Archive

October 18, 2002

The Agriculture Department reminds farmers and ranchers that Oct. 1 marked an important, initial sign-up date for several programs authorized under the 2002 farm bill, as well as a disaster assistance program established to help livestock producers suffering from severe drought.

In addition, USDA has announced a revision to how it will establish oilseed bases under the new direct and counter-cyclical program.

USDA found that the previous calculation used to determine oilseed bases when oilseeds were added to an existing 2002 production flexibility contract resulted in unintended disparities in the amount of oilseed bases that could be credited to farms.

The Farm Service Agency is modifying its computer software to reflect these changes. Producers will be allowed to use the old formula so they can receive program benefits immediately. USDA will accept updated base decisions using the new formula until April 1, 2003, with any additional payments to follow soon thereafter.

Along with the direct and counter-cyclical program, another program now open for sign-up is the $752 million livestock compensation program. Payments are for producers in counties declared a disaster and for livestock held as of June 1, 2002. The payments are available for all ruminant, or grass-eating animals, including beef, dairy, buffalo, beefalo, sheep and goats, but not horses.

Ranchers and farmers will be paid $18 per head for adult beef cattle and $31.50 per head for adult dairy cattle. The payment for young stock weighing over 500 pounds is $13.50 per head. Young livestock includes heifers saved as herd replacements and stocker cattle being backgrounded for the feedlot.

Payment amounts will depend on the number of head of livestock on hand June 1 and held for 90 days before or after that date.

Sign-up for other farm bill programs, such as the milk income loss contract program and the peanut quota buyout program, began on Aug. 13 and on Sept. 3, respectively.

For more information contact your local USDA Service Center or FSA office.