The pandemic and Ukraine invasion have led to supply chain disruptions, higher prices of inputs, and goods shortages in countries across the globe. USDA is adding program flexibilities, expanding options and assistance, and investing in fertilizer to help farmers address inflation and global food insecurity.
Crop Insurance for Double Cropping
Double cropping allows farmers to plant a second crop on the same land in the same year, helping to boost production without relying on farmers to substitute crops or cultivate new land.
In 2022, USDA expanded insurance coverage for double cropping in nearly 1,500 counties to support food production and lower costs for American families. The Double Cropping Initiative, offered by USDA’s Risk Management Agency, increases food production by increasing the number of counties where soybeans or grain sorghum planted for harvest following another crop in the same crop year is an insurable practice.
Read Our FAQ: Double Cropping - Expanded Insurance Coverage
Precision Agriculture and Nutrient Management
USDA is increasing its technical assistance for nutrient management practices, including precision agriculture, helping farmers more efficiently use fertilizer and reduce costs. This includes streamlining the application process for conservation programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and prioritizing application approvals to expand access to its nutrient management planning and cost sharing assistance programs.
On average, farmers can save nearly $30 per acre on land currently receiving excess nutrients by implementing a nutrient management plan. Learn more about SMART Nutrient Management.
Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act has provided $19.5 billion in additional conservation funding for climate-smart practices like nutrient management.
USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) accepts applications for EQIP and CSP year-round. If you’re interested in applying, contact the NRCS office at your local USDA Service Center.
Find Your Local Service Center
USDA Service Centers are locations where you can connect with Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or Rural Development employees for your business needs. Enter your state and county below to find your local service center and agency offices. If this locator does not work in your browser, please visit offices.usda.gov.
Learn more about our Urban Service Centers.
Visit the Risk Management Agency website to find a regional or compliance office or to find an insurance agent near you.