Deadline extended: Growers get more time to report 2025 acres

USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has reopened the 2025 crop acreage reporting period for specialty crop producers seeking help from the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) program.

Producers now have until April 24 to report their 2025 planted acreage to FSA.

The ASCF program, announced Feb. 13 by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, is intended to help specialty crop growers manage ongoing challenges, including market disruptions, high input costs, inflation and increased competition from foreign imports.

FSA Administrator Bill Beam said the decision to reopen the reporting window follows requests from growers, industry groups and lawmakers to ensure all eligible producers have an opportunity to participate.

Who is eligible?

The program covers a wide range of specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts and other horticultural crops. Eligible commodities include apples, blueberries, grapes, lettuce, onions, peppers, potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes, watermelons and many other crops.

Dry edible beans and peas that are covered under the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program are not eligible for ASCF.

What growers need to do

Participation in ASCF is tied directly to reported acreage. Growers must ensure their 2025 crop acreage reports are accurate and submitted to FSA by the April 24 deadline.

USDA plans to announce commodity-specific payment rates after the reporting period closes.

Preparing for applications

While the ASCF application period has not yet opened, USDA is encouraging producers to prepare now by setting up a Login.gov account. This will allow growers to apply online more quickly once enrollment begins.

Producers can also work directly with their local FSA county office for assistance with acreage reporting and future applications. Growers are encouraged to contact their local FSA office to schedule an appointment.