By Pam Musland

JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NDFU) – North Dakota Farmers Union applauded today’s announcement by the United States Department of Agriculture that a second round of farm aid will provide $14 billion to producers who have experienced market disruptions caused by COVID-19.

Sign up for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 2) begins Monday, Sept. 21.

“This is much needed funding to fill in the gaps the first CFAP program missed,” said North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne. “It will cover more commodities, provide a minimum payment of $15 per acre for crop farmers, and offer additional support to livestock producers.”

Watne said trade disputes, weather challenges, and the pandemic have created significant challenges for family farmers and ranchers. He praised Sen. John Hoeven for his leadership and action in securing the funding as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee.

“This funding will help farmers keep afloat, there’s no question about it, but our growing reliance on ad hoc support is not a sustainable solution,” said Watne. “In the long term, we need to restore competition in the marketplace, address chronic overproduction, and create a strong and stable farm safety net.”