Source: USDA, 10/25/13

Juan M. Garcia, Administrator of USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), reminds producers that final production evidence and any supporting documentation for the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program for eligible months (including fiscal years 2009, 2010, 2012 and 2013) that MILC payments were available must be submitted by Nov. 1, 2013.

“The MILC program helps dairy producers get through tough economic times, and is another reason we need a new Farm, Food and Job bill," said Garcia. "When low dairy prices create a hardship for dairy producers, payments are made to those who participate in the program to ensure they have the financial assistance they need to maintain their business. An additional benefit is the stimulation of local economies.”

Statutory authority for the MILC program expired Sept. 30, 2013. New legislation must be enacted before the MILC program, or its replacement, can provide assistance.

Dairy operations can obtain more information on MILC by contacting a local FSA office or search “MILC” at www.fsa.usda.gov.