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Idaho Delegation Encourages Farmers to Submit CFAP Applications
Direct payments for eligible farmers are open to submit application starting Tuesday May 26th
Washington, D.C. - Starting on Tuesday, May 26th, eligible farmers and ranchers can begin submitting applications for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) administered by USDA. The program is the result of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which was supported by the entire Idaho Delegation, and includes $16 billion to provide immediate relief through direct payments to farmers and ranchers. Due to the rapidly evolving nature of the pandemic, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to submit their application in a timely manner.
To apply, farmers are encouraged to contact their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office. Meetings are currently by appointment only but local offices are available by phone and email for help processing the application. Applicants are also encouraged to visit https://www.farmers.gov/cfap for details on information needed to apply, the program, and eligibility. The program is open to a large range of commodities including but not limited to potatoes, dairy, livestock, malting barley, and many more. The USDA has also asked for more information on aquaculture and nurseries to be better understand the impacts due to COVID-19.
The Idaho Delegation has been closely following the agriculture losses due to the economic downturn and the associated shutdowns of the food service industry and communicating the needs of Idaho agriculture directly to USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue. The Delegation has sent letters to USDA outlining the effects of COVID-19 to dairy, potato, onion, cattle, sheep, grain, and hops production to ensure the CFAP program takes into account the diverse representation of the Idaho agricultural industry which is more than 20 percent of Idaho’s economy. The Idaho Delegation also sent letters to USDA expressing concerns with payment limitations given the larger sized farming and ranching operations in Idaho. The final rule on CFAP increased payment limitations from the original proposal.
Yellowstone National Park is now welcoming visitors. Old Faithful and the stunning Grand Canyon of Yellowstone sit in our backyard. For more information about visiting the park, click the photo below.
The Idaho National Lab is donating $60,000 to local banks during this difficult time in the lives of many. We are so very fortunate to have the generosity of INL in our community.
Many of us live in Idaho because of the incredible recreation opportunities. With proper social distancing we can still enjoy the Gem State. The Idaho Fish and Game gives us some tips to Recreate Responsibly Idaho in the video below.
The Idaho Humanities Council has announced their CARES ACT grants. More information below.
On Memorial Day we remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise will co-host a special presentation of the National Memorial Day Concert on Sunday, May 24 at 8/7c on PBS.
The Idaho National Guard put together an incredible tribute for Memorial Day, please take a moment and enjoy the video below.
Don't forget to fill out the census, click the photo below to see how simple it is.
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