News

Dairy Margin Coverage payments possible for January as enrollment deadline nears

USDA’s Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation says only a few days remain for dairy farmers to enroll in the newly improved Dairy Margin Coverage Program for 2026.

Richard Fordyce tells Brownfield, “The revisions in the One Big, Beautiful Bill, I think it even makes it a stronger program.”

“When I talk to dairy farmers, they’ve got some challenges, currently and maybe ahead,” he shares. “But the Dairy Margin Coverage Program is certainly one thing that they appreciate, and I think they value the opportunity for that risk protection.”

Expanding provisions added as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill include an update to production history. clarification on how new will be able to establish production history, additional production coverage, and the ability to lock in elections for a six-year period for a 25 percent premium discount.

Last year, margin payments were only triggered during the month of December, and are possible for at least January 2026 with the current price environment.