By Scout Nelson
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the new initiatives during Minnesota Farmfest. She explained that USDA continues improving its services by listening to farmers and creating programs that better meet their needs while supporting the long-term success of American agriculture.
One major initiative is USDA's Data Modernization Plan, which is currently being developed across several USDA agencies. The department plans to improve how agricultural data is collected, analyzed, and shared.
As part of this effort, USDA will hold listening sessions at major agricultural events across the country, including the Indiana State Fair, Wisconsin State Fair, Penn State Ag Progress Days, Illinois State Fair, Dakotafest, Missouri State Fair, Iowa State Fair, Nebraska State Fair, and the Farm Progress Show.
For additional information and details about a specific listening session, please email DataModernization@usda.gov.
USDA is also providing temporary financial relief through the Risk Management Agency (RMA). Farmers with crop insurance premium billing dates between July 1, 2026, and September 30, 2026, may receive up to 60 additional days to pay premiums, administrative fees, and Written Payment Agreement balances.
Approved Insurance Providers may also waive interest charges during the extended payment period.
Another important update restores the option for producers to purchase an additional 5% prevented planting coverage beginning with crops tied to the August 31, 2026, filing date for the 2027 and future crop years.
This added protection helps farmers manage losses when severe weather or other conditions prevent planting.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Government & Policy