Specialty crop producers urged to apply for USDA funding

By Andi Anderson

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has introduced the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program to help specialty crop producers manage marketing costs and enhance market opportunities. Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Director Tim Boring has reminded producers to submit applications by January 8, 2025, at their local USDA Farm Service Agency office.

The $2 billion MASC program ensures at least $78 million in support for Michigan’s specialty crop growers. This funding will help maintain strong domestic supply chains and boost market competitiveness.

“MASC comes at a critical time for Michigan’s specialty crop industry, providing needed support to boost the competitiveness of Michigan producers as they face growing pressures from rising labor costs, challenging weather, and international markets,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring.

The program offers significant benefits to producers of fruits, vegetables, nuts, Christmas trees, and floriculture, among others. It covers costs related to handling perishables, specialized transport equipment, packaging to prevent damage, and increased labour expenses.

To qualify for the MASC program, producers must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Income Requirements: Average adjusted gross income (AGI) must be under $900,000 unless farm income constitutes 75% of AGI.

Business Status: Applicants must currently produce specialty crops and have ownership or risk in the production for 2025.

Residency: Applicants must be U.S. citizens, resident aliens, or meet specific requirements for other organizational structures.

Conservation Compliance: Producers must comply with highly erodible land and wetland conservation regulations.

Legal Compliance: No controlled substance violations are permitted.

This funding opportunity aims to help specialty crop producers overcome market challenges and maintain economic viability. Specialty crop producers are encouraged to act quickly and submit applications before the deadline to benefit from this vital initiative.

Photo Credit: usda