The 2018 Farm Bill, officially signed into law by President Trump on December 20, 2018, marked a significant milestone for American agriculture. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) moved swiftly to put the legislation into action, initiating numerous programs aimed at supporting farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across the nation. To ensure effective implementation, the USDA actively engaged with stakeholders and the public through listening sessions, gathering valuable input to shape the rollout of these vital programs. This article provides a comprehensive update on the implementation progress across various titles of the Farm Bill, highlighting key programs and their current status.
Title I – Commodity Programs: Strengthening the Farm Safety Net
Title I of the Farm Bill focuses on commodity programs, providing crucial support and risk management tools for agricultural producers. Key programs under this title have seen significant progress in their implementation.
Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy): Supporting Dairy Farmers
The Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy) played a vital role in assisting dairy producers. Recognizing the financial pressures faced by dairy farmers, the USDA offered retroactive participation in MPP-Dairy for 2018 to those who had participated in the Livestock Gross Margin for Dairy Cattle Program. This enrollment opportunity concluded on May 10, 2019, with over $7 million disbursed to producers through this retroactive coverage as of May 28, 2019.
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Furthermore, the Farm Service Agency (FSA) initiated reimbursements for eligible producers for MPP-Dairy premiums paid between 2014 and 2017, starting on May 8, 2019. By May 28, 2019, over $1.7 million in cash refunds had been paid out, providing much-needed financial relief to dairy farmers.
Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC): A Modernized Safety Net for Dairy
Building upon MPP-Dairy, the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program offers a modernized and enhanced safety net for dairy producers. To aid producers in making informed decisions about their coverage, a new web-based decision tool was launched. Developed in partnership with the University of Wisconsin, this tool allows producers to analyze various scenarios using different coverage levels available under the DMC program. This innovative tool empowers dairy farmers to strategically manage their risk.
Sign-up for the DMC program commenced on June 17, 2019, with margin payments to qualifying producers starting in early July 2019. DMC represents a significant step forward in providing effective and accessible risk management for the dairy industry.
Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC): Options for Crop Producers
For crop producers, the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs provide essential income support. The FSA announced the opening of ARC/PLC elections for the 2019 crop year in September 2019, followed by the 2020 crop year elections in October 2019. These programs offer producers choices in managing price and revenue fluctuations, contributing to a stable agricultural sector.
Title II – Conservation: Investing in Environmental Stewardship
Title II of the Farm Bill emphasizes conservation, supporting programs that promote environmental stewardship and sustainable agricultural practices. Implementation progress in this title reflects a commitment to protecting natural resources while supporting agricultural productivity.
Conservation Reserve Program (CRP): Land Conservation Initiatives
The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) continues to be a cornerstone of land conservation efforts. The FSA began accepting applications on June 3, 2019, for specific practices under the continuous CRP. This included offering one-year extensions to existing CRP participants with expiring contracts of 14 years or less, and reopening enrollment for existing Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) agreements. These actions ensure the continued conservation benefits of enrolled lands.
Looking ahead, the FSA planned to offer a General CRP sign-up in December 2019, further expanding opportunities for land conservation across the country.
Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP): Collaborative Conservation
The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) fosters collaboration in conservation efforts. On April 26, 2019, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provided guidance to State committees to designate RCPP coordinators in each State. This step strengthens the program’s administrative structure and enhances its effectiveness at the local level.
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP): Rewarding Stewardship Practices
The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) recognizes and rewards farmers and ranchers for their ongoing stewardship efforts. On May 10, 2019, the NRCS issued guidance for state conservationists regarding participant requests for new contracts and extensions of unexpired contracts from 2014. Additional guidance addressed necessary adjustments for existing RCPP partnership agreements to enroll in new CSP contracts. These updates ensure the smooth operation and continued relevance of the CSP.
Technical Changes to NRCS Conservation Programs: Streamlining and Enhancing Programs
Several technical changes to NRCS conservation programs were implemented to align regulations with the 2018 Farm Bill. On May 6, 2019, the NRCS published an interim final rule enacting these changes, which include:
- Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Program: Waiving redundant requirements to simplify program administration.
- Healthy Forests Reserve Program: Expanding program objectives to include the protection of at-risk species and allowing permanent easements on Tribal lands, broadening the program’s conservation impact.
- Technical Service Providers: Authorizing certification of technical service providers through qualified non-federal entities, increasing accessibility and efficiency of technical assistance.
- Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program: Mandating that $3 million be used to promote public access for hunting and recreation on wetlands enrolled in the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, enhancing the program’s public benefits.
These technical adjustments streamline program operations and enhance their overall effectiveness in achieving conservation goals.
Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG): Fostering Innovation in Conservation
Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) support the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches. On May 15, 2019, the NRCS announced a significant investment of $25 million per year for five years to support On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials. These trials, part of the CIG and available to farmers eligible for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, encourage the testing and implementation of cutting-edge conservation technologies and practices. The proposal submission deadline was July 15, 2019.
Furthering its commitment to conservation innovation, the NRCS announced the availability of $12.5 million to support CIG on agricultural lands on May 30, 2019. Proposals were accepted until July 30, 2019. These grants are crucial for driving progress and finding new solutions to environmental challenges in agriculture.
Title III – Trade: Expanding Agricultural Markets
Title III of the Farm Bill focuses on trade, aiming to expand market opportunities for American agricultural products globally. Implementation efforts in this area are vital for maintaining the competitiveness of U.S. agriculture in the international marketplace.
Borlaug Fellowship Program 2019: Investing in Global Agricultural Leadership
The Borlaug Fellowship Program plays a crucial role in fostering international agricultural collaboration. On May 6, 2019, the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) announced the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the 2019 Borlaug Fellowship Program. This program supports the development of agricultural leaders worldwide, contributing to global food security and agricultural advancement.
Local and Regional Food Aid Procurement: Enhancing Food Aid Programs
The Local and Regional Food Aid Procurement Program aims to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of food aid programs. On May 20, 2019, Secretary Perdue signed the program report, which was subsequently sent to Congress. This program is intended to streamline food aid procurement and ensure timely assistance to those in need.
Agricultural Trade Promotion and Facilitation: Supporting Market Access
Promoting and facilitating agricultural trade is essential for economic growth in the agricultural sector. On May 28, 2019, the FAS announced a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for FY 2020 funding for several key programs: the Market Access Program, Foreign Market Development Program, Emerging Markets Program, and Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops Program. The submission deadline was June 28, 2019. These programs are instrumental in helping U.S. agricultural products reach new markets and consumers around the world.
Title IV – Nutrition Programs: Addressing Food Security
Title IV of the Farm Bill addresses nutrition programs, ensuring access to nutritious food for low-income individuals and families. These programs are critical for combating food insecurity and promoting public health.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Modernizing and Improving Access
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the cornerstone of federal food assistance. On April 12, 2019, the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) published the solicitation for the FY 2019 SNAP Process and Technology Improvement Grants, mandated by Section 4010 of the Farm Bill. These grants aim to enhance the efficiency and technology used in SNAP administration, with responses due by June 10, 2019. Modernizing SNAP systems is crucial for improving service delivery and accessibility.
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SNAP is also exploring innovative approaches to improve access to healthy food. On April 18, 2019, FNS launched the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot. This pilot program is being rigorously evaluated to inform regulations required by Section 4001 of the Farm Bill, potentially paving the way for online SNAP purchasing in the future, increasing convenience and access for beneficiaries.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): Supporting Food Banks
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) provides crucial support to food banks and food distribution organizations. On April 15, 2019, FNS issued an information memorandum on TEFAP state plan changes and information on TEFAP food funding. This guidance ensures that states have the necessary information to effectively administer TEFAP and support food banks in their communities.
Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program: Promoting Healthy Eating
The Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program encourages healthy eating among SNAP participants. On April 16, 2019, SNAP staff provided key technical assistance to the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) for the 2019 Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program solicitation. The Request for Funding was updated on May 9, 2019, with applications due June 10, 2019. This program is vital for increasing access to fruits and vegetables and improving dietary habits.
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR): Serving Tribal Communities
The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) addresses the unique nutritional needs of tribal communities. On May 9, 2019, FNS hosted a monthly FDPIR Farm Bill Implementation Call with Tribal Leaders, ensuring ongoing communication and collaboration in program implementation.
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) and TEFAP: Program Updates
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) and TEFAP received updates under the Farm Bill. From May 5-8, 2019, FNS attended the American Commodity Distribution Association Conference in Niagara Falls, providing updates on the Farm Bill’s CSFP and TEFAP provisions to program administrators and stakeholders.
SNAP State Plan Handbook and Funding Reallocation: Streamlining Administration
Further streamlining SNAP administration, on May 17, 2019, FNS issued three key documents to the States: (1) Q&As to follow up on an informational memo, (2) an addendum to the E&T State Plan Handbook providing instructions on reflecting new Farm Bill requirements in state plans, and (3) information on the new 100% funds reallocation process for 2020. These resources are essential for states to effectively implement the updated SNAP provisions.
Title V – Credit: Enhancing Access to Farm Loans
Title V of the Farm Bill focuses on credit, aiming to improve access to loans for farmers and ranchers, particularly beginning farmers and ranchers. These provisions are critical for supporting farm operations and investments.
Loan Limits: Increased Access to Capital
Recognizing the increasing costs of farming, the Farm Bill authorized increases to loan limits. On May 17, 2019, the FSA issued an amendment to increase loan limits to $600,000 for direct loans and $1,750,000 for guaranteed loans. These higher loan limits provide farmers with greater access to the capital they need to operate and expand their businesses.
Farm Ownership Loans: Supporting Farm Ownership
Farm ownership loans are vital for helping farmers purchase and improve their farms. On May 8, 2019, the FSA issued an amendment to clarify eligibility requirements for farm ownership loans. This included the increased loan limits and waiver authority for the 3-year experience requirement for qualified beginning farmers or ranchers, making farm ownership more accessible to new entrants in agriculture.
Title VI – Rural Development: Investing in Rural Communities
Title VI of the Farm Bill focuses on rural development, supporting programs that invest in infrastructure, businesses, and communities in rural America. These programs are essential for the vitality and prosperity of rural areas.
Cushion of Credit: Supporting Rural Utilities
The Cushion of Credit Program supports rural utilities. On June 7, 2019, the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) published the announcement of new Cushion of Credit Program Provisions in the Federal Register. The current 5 percent interest rate will remain until September 30, 2020, followed by a 4 percent rate until September 30, 2021, and then transitioning to a variable 1-year Treasury rate. This program provides financial stability and predictability for rural utilities.
BioPreferred Program: Promoting Biobased Products
The BioPreferred Program promotes the development and use of biobased products. The program was transferred from Department Administration to the Rural Business Cooperative Service to ensure increased development, purchase, and use of biobased products, supporting innovation and sustainability in the bioeconomy.
Interagency Task Force on Rural Water Quality: Addressing Water Challenges
The Interagency Task Force on Rural Water Quality is focused on addressing critical water quality issues in rural communities. The Rural Utility Service planned to host the task force’s kick-off meeting on July 10, 2019, at the USDA Whitten Building, bringing together experts to address drinking water and surface water contamination in rural areas.
Council on Rural Community Innovation and Economic Development: Fostering Rural Innovation
The Council on Rural Community Innovation and Economic Development plays a key role in fostering innovation and economic growth in rural areas. Rural Development, with support from the Office of Science Technology Policy, held the council’s next meeting on July 10, 2019, at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, advancing strategies for rural prosperity.
Implementation Outreach: Engaging with Stakeholders
Extensive outreach efforts have been undertaken to inform stakeholders about rural development programs. Presentations were delivered at the P3 Water Summit and the Council on Infrastructure Financing Authorities (CIFA) in San Diego, California, and at the Infrastructure Investment Summit in Washington, DC, focusing on the Interagency Task Force on Rural Water Quality. Additionally, the Innovation Center hosted a Human Experience (HX) Lab on May 23, 2019, focusing on lender experiences with Rural Development’s Community Facilities and Water & Waste Disposal Guaranteed Loan Programs, ensuring programs are user-friendly and effective.
Title VII – Research and Related Matters: Advancing Agricultural Knowledge
Title VII of the Farm Bill focuses on research and related matters, supporting critical research and extension activities that drive agricultural innovation and knowledge dissemination.
Matters on Certain School Designations and Declarations: Clarifying School Designations
On May 16, 2019, a Federal Register notice was published addressing matters related to school designations and declarations (Section 7102), providing clarity on important provisions related to agricultural education institutions.
Carryover of Funds for Extension at 1890 Land-Grant Colleges: Supporting HBCUs
Guidance was issued to 1890 universities on May 24, 2019, regarding the carryover of funds for extension at 1890 Land-Grant Colleges (Sec. 7114). This provision supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in their vital extension and outreach work within agricultural communities.
Title VIII – Forestry: Supporting Forest Management
Title VIII of the Farm Bill addresses forestry, supporting programs that promote sustainable forest management and collaboration. These provisions are essential for maintaining healthy and productive forests.
Tribal Consultation on Woody Biomass: Engaging Tribal Input
On April 12, 2019, Forest Service participants attended a National Consultation on P.L.115-325 (Indian Energy Act/Woody Biomass), hosted by the Department of Interior/Bureau of Indian Affairs, to gather valuable Tribal input on woody biomass initiatives.
Good Neighbor Authority and Tribal Forest Management Demonstration Project: Collaborative Forest Management
On May 15, 2019, the Forest Service presented a virtual 2018 Farm Bill Listening Session for Tribes, focusing on the Tribal Forest Management Demonstration Project (“638’ contracts”) and tribal woody biomass projects authorized by Public Law 115-325. This session fostered collaboration and information sharing with tribal partners. A recording is available on the U.S. Forest Service’s Tribal Relations page.
Tribal Forest Management Demonstration Project Presentation: Outreach to Native American Groups
On May 23, 2019, in Phoenix, AZ, the Forest Service delivered a formal presentation on the implementation of Section 8703 to the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society, further engaging with Native American organizations on forest management initiatives.
Good Neighbor Authority Implementation: Streamlining State Collaboration
To facilitate collaboration with states, the Forest Service distributed non-financial templates to field offices on May 31, 2019, for implementation of Good Neighbor Authority agreements dealing with States, streamlining cooperative forest management efforts.
Title IX – Energy: Promoting Bioenergy and Renewable Energy
Title IX of the Farm Bill focuses on energy, supporting programs that promote bioenergy, renewable energy, and energy efficiency in rural areas. These programs contribute to energy independence and rural economic development.
Definition Update for Biorefinery Assistance Program: Clarifying Program Scope
On April 23, 2019, a Federal Register notice was published with a definition update for the Biorefinery Assistance Program (9001 & 9003), clarifying the program’s scope and eligibility criteria.
Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels and REAP Grants: Supporting Renewable Energy Projects
The workplan for the Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels (Section 9005) and the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants (Section 9007) was published in the Spring Regulatory agenda on May 22, 2019, signaling continued progress in these key renewable energy programs.
Title X – Horticulture: Supporting Specialty Crops
Title X of the Farm Bill focuses on horticulture, supporting programs that benefit specialty crop producers, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. These programs are vital for the diversity and competitiveness of American agriculture.
Report on Plant Biostimulants: Examining Emerging Technologies
On April 22, 2019, the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), along with representatives from the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), the Office of the Secretary (OSEC), and industry stakeholders, met to discuss the report on plant biostimulants. The meeting focused on outlining the steps needed to complete the report and submit it to Congress by the December 21 deadline, examining the potential of these emerging agricultural technologies.
Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program (FMLFPP): Strengthening Local Food Systems
The Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program (FMLFPP) supports local food systems and direct-to-consumer marketing. On April 18, 2019, AMS announced the availability of funding for the FMLFPP, part of the Local Agriculture Market Program (Sec. 10102). These programs are crucial for strengthening local food economies and connecting consumers with farmers.
Hemp Production: Establishing a New Agricultural Commodity
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp production as an agricultural commodity. On February 27, 2019, AMS issued a Notice to Trade stating that USDA had begun the process of gathering information to initiate rulemaking for commercial hemp production. AMS also clarified that tribes and institutions of higher education could continue operating under the 2014 Farm Bill authorities until 12 months after USDA establishes the new plan and regulations.
Further guidance on hemp production was issued on April 18, 2019, with an AMS Notice to Trade regarding the importation of hemp seeds. On May 28, 2019, AMS issued two additional Notices to Trade clarifying interstate transportation of hemp, licensing for hemp production, and Tribal participation under the 2014 Farm Bill authorities for research purposes during the 2019 growing season. These notices provide essential clarity and guidance as the hemp industry develops.
Plant Variety Protection Office: Protecting Hemp Varieties
On April 24, 2019, AMS announced that the Plant Variety Protection Office would begin accepting applications for seed-propagated hemp for plant variety protection, offering intellectual property protection for new hemp varieties and incentivizing innovation in hemp breeding.
Organic Agricultural Product Imports Interagency Working Group: Ensuring Organic Integrity
To strengthen the integrity of organic imports, AMS established the Organic Agricultural Product Imports Interagency Working Group on May 14, 2019, in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The working group’s first meeting was planned for June 2019, focusing on enhancing oversight and preventing fraud in organic imports.
Title XI – Crop Insurance: Strengthening Risk Management
Title XI of the Farm Bill focuses on crop insurance, a critical risk management tool for farmers. These provisions aim to enhance and modernize crop insurance programs.
Forage Crop Insurance Modifications: Adapting to Farm Bill Changes
On April 23, 2019, the Federal Crop Insurance Board of Directors approved modifications to the annual forage policy to accommodate 2018 Farm Bill changes, ensuring that crop insurance programs remain responsive to the needs of producers.
Standard Reinsurance Agreement (SRA) Updates: Enhancing Program Integrity
On April 26, 2020 SRA changes were distributed to Approved Insurance Providers. The SRA includes new requirements for training loss adjusters and agents, including the submission of Actual Production History to RMA, enhancing the integrity and accuracy of the crop insurance program.
Title XII – Miscellaneous: Additional Farm Bill Provisions
Title XII of the Farm Bill encompasses miscellaneous provisions, addressing a range of important issues impacting agriculture and rural communities.
Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program RFA: Supporting Nutrition Incentives
On April 23, 2019, the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program RFA was issued (Section 4205), further supporting this vital program that promotes healthy eating through nutrition incentives.
Tribal Consultation: Engaging Tribal Leaders
USDA held a Tribal Consultation on May 1-2, 2019, meeting with tribal leaders to discuss 2018 Farm Bill implementation, ensuring tribal voices are heard in the implementation process.
Pima Cotton and Wool Trust Fund Payments: Supporting Commodity Programs
On April 15, 2019, FAS issued $27.3 million in payments under the Pima Agriculture Cotton Trust Fund and $14.9 million under the Agriculture Wool Apparel Manufacturers Trust Fund, providing financial support to these commodity sectors.
Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives: Supporting Dairy Innovation
Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives received funding availability announcements on April 16, 2019, with AMS announcing the availability of funding (Sec. 12513) to support innovation and value-added activities in the dairy sector.
Sheep Production and Marketing Grant Program: Supporting Sheep Producers
The Sheep Production and Marketing Grant Program received a funding availability announcement on April 23, 2019, with AMS announcing funding (Sec. 12102) to support sheep production and marketing activities.
Feasibility Study on Livestock Dealer Statutory Trust: Examining Livestock Protections
On April 26, 2019, AMS published a Federal Register notice soliciting input for a feasibility study on a Livestock Dealers Trust (Sec. 12103), examining potential mechanisms to protect livestock producers.
Veteran Farmer or Rancher Benefits: Supporting Military Veterans in Agriculture
On April 26, 2019, RMA implemented the new definition for Veteran Farmer or Rancher (12306), extending benefits to veterans similar to those for beginning farmers or ranchers. These benefits include exemptions from administrative fees, additional premium subsidies, use of transferred production history, and increased substitute Yield Adjustments, recognizing the valuable contributions of veterans to agriculture.
Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program (FSCP): Addressing Feral Swine Threat
The Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program (FSCP) received a significant funding boost with USDA announcing $75 million on June 20, 2019. This joint effort between NRCS and APHIS targets feral swine eradication in select areas across several states, with applications accepted through August 19, 2019, addressing the significant threat posed by feral swine to agriculture and ecosystems.
Conclusion: Continued Progress in Farm Bill Implementation
The USDA has made substantial progress in implementing the 2018 Farm Bill across its various titles. These programs are designed to support a robust and resilient agricultural sector, promote environmental stewardship, address food security, and invest in rural communities. Ongoing implementation efforts and stakeholder engagement will ensure that the Farm Bill effectively serves the needs of American agriculture and rural America in the years to come.
