Acreage reporting dates approaching

   Doreen Conlogue, executive director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Aroostook County, reminds producers of the acreage reporting requirements that must be met prior to receiving program benefits.     Filing an accurate acreage report for all crops and land uses, including failed acreage and prevented planting acreage, can prevent the loss of benefits for a variety of programs.
    “Producers are required to file an FSA-578, Report of Acreage, certification for the farm by July 15 for all crops,” said Conlogue.
    “It is also very important that producers report crop losses, including those insured under Federal Crop Insurance (FCIC) and Non-insured Assistance Program (NAP) within 15 days of the date damage occurred or 15 days from the date damage is apparent,” said Conlogue.
    “Losses and or damages to crops must be reported after each disaster occurrence and in a timely manner to insure continued eligibility for benefits.”
    Producers are encouraged to visit their local FSA county office to file the required FSA-578 certification report before the deadline dates expire.