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FSA offers extension on CRP acres

U.S. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the Farm Service Agency will offer some producers the opportunity to modify and extend their Conservation Reserve Program contracts scheduled to expire on September 30, 2009.

Because of the 32-million acre cap in the Farm Bill, Vilsack says they will only be able to extend contracts on about 1.5 million of the 3.9 million acres expiring this year. Those acres with the highest environmental benefit or highest potential for soil erosion will be selected.

Producers choosing to extend their contracts will receive their current rental rate. All or a portion of the acreage under contract may be included in an extension, but no new acreage may be added.

FSA will notify participants by letter beginning May 6, 2009. The sign-up for this voluntary extension will begin on May 18 and run through June 30, 2009. Signup will be at your local FSA office.