COLLEGE STATION, TX – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has announced the distribution of a second round of payments under the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program. Set to provide up to $1.3 billion in additional assistance, this funding follows nearly $900 million in first-round payments already delivered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA).
“President Trump is again putting farmers first,” stated Secretary Rollins. “After a thorough review of USDA funding for certain programs to ensure they align with the President’s policies and uphold our commitment to responsible distribution of American taxpayer dollars, USDA resumed MASC payments. I am happy to announce this second round of support for specialty crop producers today and we are thankful for the work they do to produce the safest, most abundant food supply for our families and the world.”
Purpose of the MASC Program
Launched in December 2024 and initially funded with $2 billion from the Commodity Credit Corporation, the MASC program aims to assist specialty crop producers with rising input costs and to bolster the expansion of domestic markets. Due to considerable stakeholder feedback and heightened demand, funding was increased to $2.65 billion in January 2025. The recent announcement reaffirms the USDA’s commitment to supporting specialty crop producers as they address various challenges associated with high marketing costs.
Covered Crops and Costs
The program provides targeted relief for producers of a wide range of specialty crops, including fresh and dried fruits, vegetables (such as mushrooms, dry edible beans, and peas), tree nuts, and other commercially marketed specialty crops. MASC funding helps offset a variety of higher costs specific to specialty crops, including:
- The perishability of products requiring expedited handling and transportation;
- Specialized equipment designed for temperature and humidity control;
- Protective packaging to minimize damage during transport;
- Labor costs associated with rapid market delivery.
Results and Impacts
The first round of payments from the MASC program has already delivered significant support to specialty crop growers, which has been instrumental in sustaining production and market growth. This additional round of payments is expected to bolster the ability of producers to manage ongoing cost pressures while expanding their reach within domestic markets.
A Look Ahead
With the program’s application period closed as of January 10, 2025, the USDA continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector, particularly specialty crop growers who face unique challenges. This second round of funding is a testament to the administration’s focus on responsible resource distribution and its acknowledgment of the vital role these producers play in ensuring food security.
The MASC program represents an important pillar in the USDA’s broader strategy to address industry needs and foster innovation across the agricultural landscape. This continued investment in specialty crops lays the groundwork for a robust and sustainable food supply chain in the years to come.
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