By Andi Anderson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is reminding Ohio dairy producers to enroll in the 2025 Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program before the March 31 deadline.
This program is designed to support dairy farms by offering financial protection against the difference between milk prices and feed costs.
Enrollment for the 2025 DMC program began on January 29. According to USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Deputy State Executive Director Traci Garza, many Ohio producers have already joined.
“We encourage producers to join the 368 dairy operations in Ohio that have already signed up for this important safety net program in advance of the deadline,” she said.
The DMC program offers producers the opportunity to choose coverage levels to fit their needs. At just $0.15 per hundredweight for $9.50 coverage, the plan is affordable and practical for risk management. DMC payments help farmers when the national average milk price minus average feed cost falls below a selected margin.
Thanks to the American Relief Act of 2025, provisions from the 2018 Farm Bill have been extended, allowing DMC coverage to continue through 2025.
DMC coverage is also accessible to small and underserved farmers. The $100 administrative fee is waived for producers who are limited resource, beginning, socially disadvantaged, or military veterans.
The program uses updated data for feed and premium hay prices to more accurately reflect real farm expenses. This makes DMC a reliable safety net for producers dealing with market challenges.
Ohio dairy producers are encouraged to contact their local FSA office for help with the application process. Signing up before the March 31 deadline ensures timely coverage and better financial security.
The DMC program remains a valuable option for farmers who want to protect their operations and plan for a more stable future in the dairy industry.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Ohio, Government & Policy, Livestock, Dairy Cattle, Rural Lifestyle