The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a second round of payments under the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program. The initiative aims to support specialty crop producers across the country facing a range of economic and environmental challenges.
The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance (SCFBA), a coalition representing specialty crop growers, responded to the announcement by emphasizing the importance of continued federal support. In a statement, the group cited factors such as rising input costs, labor shortages, unfair trade practices, market disruptions, and weather-related disasters as key pressures affecting the competitiveness of U.S. growers.
While acknowledging the relief provided through MASC, SCFBA noted that the program represents only a partial step toward addressing long-term needs. The group reiterated its call for Congress to pass a comprehensive, bipartisan farm bill that incorporates measures to strengthen the specialty crop sector.
SCFBA is co-chaired by Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association; Mike Joyner, President of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association; Dave Puglia, President and CEO of Western Growers; and Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council.
Originally launched in December 2024, the MASC program allocated $2 billion from the Commodity Credit Corporation to assist producers with rising production costs and to encourage domestic market development. Due to strong demand and stakeholder feedback, the USDA increased the total program funding to $2.65 billion in January 2025.
The application window for MASC closed on January 10, 2025. According to the USDA's Farm Service Agency, nearly $900 million was distributed during the first round of payments to eligible producers. Details on the disbursement schedule for the second round are expected to follow.
The SCFBA's statement emphasized that while the current round of assistance is significant, further policy support will be necessary to ensure long-term sustainability and competitiveness for growers producing fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and horticultural crops.
For more information:
The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance
www.farmbillalliance.com