USDA Shares Plans for Dairy Support and Food Assistance

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced new updates that affect dairy producers and specialty crop growers, including here in California. According to USDA, the agency is expanding enrollment for the 2026 Dairy Margin Coverage program and moving forward with new commodity purchases aimed at increasing access to U.S. grown food through nutrition programs and food banks.

USDA says the changes are designed to help dairy farmers manage the gap between milk and feed prices. Enrollment for 2026 coverage opened January 12 and runs through February 26. One update raises Tier 1 coverage to six million pounds, and producers can now lock in coverage for up to six years at a discounted rate.

During a recent visit to a California strawberry farm, Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins also met with specialty crop producers to discuss workforce challenges and recent federal actions related to H-2A labor costs. In a statement released by USDA, Rollins said the goal is to strengthen the farm safety net and support producers as the food system continues to adapt.

USDA also announced plans to purchase up to $80 million in almonds, grape juice, pistachios, and raisins for distribution through nutrition assistance programs.