03/26/07 FSA extends DCP sign up deadline

Washington Ag March 26, 2007 USDA's Farm Service Agency announced Friday they have extended the sign up deadline for the 2007 Direct and Counter-cyclical Program, DCP, to August 3rd. The cut-off for participation remains September 30th. Those producers failing to sign up by August 3rd, but before September 30th will have to pay the late fee of $100. USDA says problems with FSA's web-based computer system caused agency officials to extend the deadline in order to ensure adequate opportunity for all producers to participate in the sign up. Originally the sign up deadline to avoid a late fee was June 1st. Sign up for the DCP at local FSA offices was delayed this year anyway because of the issue of improper payments requiring local staff to review all producers records. In a recent interview Washington State FSA Director Jack Silzel said that created a lot of extra work. Silzel: "But now counties have really kicked into gear. Farmers have been very supportive in scheduling their appointments. I would guess at this point in time about three or four counties in the whole state may be behind the ball a little bit." But now there is more time with the DCP sign up deadline extended to August 3rd though that does not extend the contract period. I'm Bob Hoff.