How CNY Farmers Can Get Paid for Unfair Trade Retaliation

When the U.S. began placing tariffs on foreign goods, many countries fired back with what officials termed, "unjustified retaliation." The majority of that retaliation was aimed at farm products. The USDA has announced plans to offer financial benefits to farmers damaged by the unfair trade practices.

The Farm Service Agency will be in charge of distributing funds through 2 programs beginning September 4. The Market Facilitation Program will provide money for corn, cotton, dairy, hog, sorghum, soybean, and wheat producers. The Purchase and Distribution Program will purchase dairy products, apples, strawberries, beef, pork and many other crops from farmers.

For example, Dairy Farmers can be eligible for .12/cwt on milk production and hog producers could get up to $8 per head. To collect funds, you'll need to accomplish some paperwork including past production numbers. But before you think this is only for big-time producers, gross income is limited to operations making less than $900,000 annually.

You can get more information on all crops that are covered and how to apply online at the USDA's website. A better bet may be contacting the local Farm Service Agency and talking to a real person. Here are some of the offices around Central New York.

Marcy Service Center
9025 River Road Marcy
Phone # 315-736-3316

Herkimer Service Center
5653 State Route 5 Herkimer
Phone # 315-866-2520

Hamilton Service Center
6503 Wes Rd Hamilton
Phone # 315-824-9076

Lafayette Service Center
2571 Us Route 11 LaFayette
Phone # 315-677-3552

Mexico Service Center
3306 Main St Mexico
Phone # 315-963-7283

Lowville Service Center
5274 Outer Stowe St Lowville
Phone # 315-376-7021

SOURCE: Farm Service Agency