Deadline Approaching for New USDA Grape Grower Assistance Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released details of the new $1 billion Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) program which will provide one-time bridge payments to help specialty crop growers address market disruptions, elevated input costs, persistent inflation and market losses from foreign competitors engaging in unfair trade practices that impede exports.

Specialty crop producers – including grape growers — have until March 13, 2026, to report 2025 acres to USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) as a first step in the process. It is important to note that wineries must be engaged in active grape farming and other eligibility requirements including income caps may apply.

More information on ASCF is available online or producers can contact their local FSA county office (go here to find it).