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USDA extends 2023 Dairy Margin Coverage sign-ups

USDA has extended the signup period for the 2023 Dairy Margin Coverage and the Supplemental Dairy Margin Coverage programs until January 31st.

The decision is being praised by dairy groups including the National Milk Producers Federation.  Senior Vice President of government affairs Paul Bleiberg encourages producers to sign up. “I think the fact that payments did end up being made this year even though they were not initially expected is yet another example of how conditions can change from the time of sign-up until later in the year, so it does underscore the value of signing up.”

FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative President John Rettler says, “The DMC is an incredibly affordable risk management tool available to farmers, and it’s important to enroll regardless of price outlook.” And he says, “The milk markets can change quickly, and when they do, you’ll want to have this margin protection as part of your risk management plan.”

USDA’s Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says early projections indicate DMC payments are likely to trigger for the first eight months of 2023.  Ducheneaux urges producers not to let this second chance at signup slide.  He says, “Markets fluctuate, sometimes at a moment’s notice, and sometimes with no warning at all, so now’s the time to ensure your operation is covered.”

Katie Demrow is with the Wisconsin Farm Service Agency.  She encourages producers to be proactive and get signed up as soon as possible, and well ahead of the new January 31^st deadline.