Enrollment for 2016 Dairy MPP begins July 1

Dairy farmers can start July 1 enrolling in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Margin Protection Program–Dairy (MPP-D) for 2016 coverage, according to a USDA news release.

MPP-D is a voluntary program. It will provide financial assistance to participating dairy operations when the margin—the difference between the price of milk and feed costs—drops below the coverage level selected by the farmer. MPP-D payments are based on historical production.

Open enrollment ends on Sept. 30. Once signed up, farmers will remain in the program through 2018, paying a $100 administrative fee each year, but may select different coverage levels each year.

To help farmers determine their level of coverage needed, USDA has an online web tool available.

For more information on MPP-D, visit Farm Service Agency online at www.fsa.usda.gov/dairy, or stop by a local FSA office.