Key Takeaways
- USDA News confirms the release of up to $1.3 billion in a second round of payments under the MASC program.
- The Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) initiative aims to offset rising input and marketing costs for growers.
- Nearly $900 million was disbursed in the initial round earlier this year.
- The program supports producers of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, herbs, and nursery crops.
- MASC funding increased to $2.65 billion in January 2025 following strong demand.
USDA News: Expanded MASC Payments Support Specialty Crop Growers
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a second round of payments under the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program, valued at up to $1.3 billion. The latest update in USDA News underscores the agency’s continued support for producers of high-value, perishable crops as they face rising costs.
Combined with the first round of payments—totaling just under $900 million—the program has now delivered approximately $2.2 billion in assistance.
MASC Program Overview and Funding Timeline
MASC was initially launched in December 2024 to provide targeted support for specialty crop producers through Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) funding. In January 2025, the USDA expanded the total available funding to $2.65 billion following grower feedback and high application volumes. The application period closed on January 10, 2025.
The program addresses cost pressures unique to specialty crops, such as:
- Temperature-controlled transport and storage
- Specialized packaging to minimize damage
- Labor-intensive harvest and handling practices
- Faster delivery timelines to maintain freshness
Covered Specialty Crops
Eligible crops under MASC include:
- Fruits (fresh and dried)
- Vegetables, including mushrooms and seed crops
- Tree nuts
- Herbs, floriculture, and nursery crops
USDA Statement on Payment Resumption
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins commented: “President Trump is again putting farmers first. After a thorough review of USDA funding for certain programs to ensure they align with the President’s policies and uphold our commitment to responsible distribution of American taxpayer dollars, USDA resumed MASC payments. I am happy to announce this second round of support for specialty crop producers today, and we are thankful for the work they do to produce the safest, most abundant food supply for our families and the world.”
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