Make an Appointment with FSA Before Spring Busy Season!
By Ryan Castle
ryan.castle@mn.usda.gov
Date Modified: 04/25/2012 8:26 PM
E-mail article | Print version
FSA offices are encouraging producers not to wait for spring to visit the office.
Stop in or call today for an appointment to complete eligibility paperwork, inquire about the new General Conservation Reserve Program sign-up, drop off your application for the pilot planting program, review your MILC program start date, and sign your farm(s) up for the 2012 DCP/ACRE programs.
There is a new process to complete basic eligibility, a new look to some common forms, and most offices are updating address and email records at your first visit of the year.
All this will take some time and so it is encouraged to call now and avoid long lines at the counter later.
FSA is utilizing a new software program this year to complete the FSA-902 (Farm Operating Plans).
An FSA-902 is required to participate in many FSA programs. To complete the yearly Farm Operating Plan reviews the new procedure requires an interview-based process that may increase producer wait time at the counter.
To help speed up the process be sure to keep your local FSA office informed of any changes in your farming operation. Some common changes that you should advise your local FSA office of are: Operating different land, changing from an individual farming operation to a trust, forming a new entity, or adding hired labor or custom work to your farming operation.
FSA offices have been authorized to start doing business by email with producers who wish to do so. Email can be an efficient and effective way to complete business in our office.
Our procedure requires us to encrypt documents unless you as a producer give us written permission otherwise. We will be asking producers as they sign-up, request loans, etc… if you are interested in doing any business by email.
This process can save us time and money and get you your required documents in a more timely manner. Producers can receive their maps by email upon request as well.
Producers will also be asked to enroll in the new GovDelivery system, which will provide notices, newsletters and reminders through electronic means. Also providing the local FSA office with an email address will assist in a smooth transition to doing business by email.