Key Takeaways
- USDA has replaced the Climate-Smart Commodities Program with the new Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) initiative, requiring at least 65% of funds to go directly to farmers.
- New USDA leadership appointments align with the administration’s “America First” agricultural policy.
- Producers had until April 15, 2025, to enroll in ARC and PLC programs for 2025; those who missed out are ineligible for payments.
- April is Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month, with public encouraged to prevent pest spread.
- USDA loan interest rates for April 2025 have been released, with operating loan rates set at 5.375%.
Latest USDA NEWS: End of Climate-Smart Commodities Program & More
USDA Ends Climate-Smart Commodities Program, Introduces AMP Initiative
Cancellation of PCSC and Introduction of AMP
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has officially ended the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities (PCSC) initiative, citing inefficiencies in fund distribution. According to USDA data, less than half of the funds in several projects directly benefited producers, with a significant share going toward administrative expenses.
Replacing the PCSC is the newly announced Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) initiative. Aligned with the current administration’s priorities, AMP places stricter criteria on grant recipients:
- At least 65% of funds must go directly to producers.
- A producer must be enrolled by December 31, 2024.
- At least one producer must receive payment by the same date.
All eligible expenses under the PCSC incurred before April 13, 2025, will still be honored. The USDA also announced efforts to reduce paperwork and streamline reporting to focus more directly on farmer-first support.
USDA Appointments Reinforce “America First” Focus
New Leadership Announced
In a significant shift, Secretary Brooke Rollins introduced a new slate of presidential appointments to further implement the “America First” policy direction within USDA programs. Notably, Bailey Archey has been appointed as Policy Advisor for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, with a particular emphasis on APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) initiatives.
This restructuring aims to align the USDA’s leadership with the current administration’s priorities around regulatory simplification and domestic agricultural competitiveness.
Program Enrollment Deadline Passed for ARC and PLC
Producers Advised on Missed Enrollment
The deadline for enrolling in the USDA’s Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2025 crop year was April 15, 2025. Producers who missed the enrollment will not be eligible for payments triggered under either program.
The USDA recommends that producers consult university-based decision tools to evaluate their ARC and PLC options moving forward. These decisions also affect eligibility for certain crop insurance programs.
Launches Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Campaign
April Dedicated to Biosecurity Education
April 2025 marks Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month, with the USDA urging the public to participate in prevention efforts. Citizens are encouraged to:
- Clean outdoor equipment before traveling between regions.
- Buy plants and produce from reputable domestic sources.
- Report sightings of unfamiliar insects or disease symptoms in crops.
USDA News: Lending Rates Announced for April 2025
Updated Loan Interest Rates
The USDA has released its lending rates for April 2025, providing support options for producers through various programs. Current rates include:
- Farm Operating Loans (Direct): 5.375%
- Farm Ownership Loans (Direct): 5.750%
- Farm Ownership Loans (Down Payment): 1.750%
- Emergency Loans: 3.750%
The USDA continues to offer commodity loans and facility loans to improve storage and post-harvest handling capabilities at competitive rates.
USDA News: Leadership Visits and Policy Updates in April 2025
Engagement and Policy Directives
Secretary Rollins visited farmers and lenders in Central Pennsylvania and Texas, discussing ongoing changes in USDA lending practices and rural development policies.
Additional updates from the USDA include:
- A memo to state agencies administering SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), clarifying that able-bodied adults must work to remain eligible for benefits.
- A waiver proposal from Arkansas to ban soda and candy from SNAP while making hot rotisserie chicken an eligible purchase is under USDA review.
These moves reflect ongoing debates around nutrition policy and work requirements tied to federal assistance.
Key USDA Reports Expected April 21–25, 2025
Upcoming Data Releases
The USDA is set to release several important reports during the week of April 21–25, including:
- Crop Progress
- Milk Production
- Livestock Slaughter
- Weekly Export Sales
- Food Price Outlook
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