NACD RESPONDS TO USDA’S PANDEMIC COVER CROP PROGRAM
WASHINGTON – Today, the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) released a statement applauding the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s announcement that producers will receive a crop insurance premium for cover crops.
“Cover crops are essential for holding the soil and improving its water retention,” NACD President Michael Crowder said. “NACD applauds USDA for bolstering payments for these important practices to incentivize further adoption.”
As part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers Program, the agency is introducing the Pandemic Cover Crop Program (PCCP) to allow producers who insured their spring crop and planted cover crops during the 2021 crop year to become eligible for a premium benefit. All cover crops reportable to the Farm Service Agency (FSA) are eligible and the premium support is $5 per acre, but no more than the full premium owed.
“The PCCP program recognizes early adopters and producers who prioritize soil health management systems,” Crowder said. “NACD is also pleased by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)‘s decision not to modify cover crop practice standards. These forward-thinking decisions by USDA will have lasting impacts to increase cover crop adoption across the U.S.”
Producers should contact their USDA service center to learn more.
About the National Association of Conservation Districts:
The National Association of Conservation Districts is the nonprofit organization that represents the nation’s 3,000 conservation districts, their state and territory associations and the 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. For more than 70 years, local conservation districts have worked with cooperating landowners and managers of private working lands to help them plan and apply effective conservation practices. For more information about NACD, visit: www.nacdnet.org.
