By Scout Nelson
Agricultural producers have until December 11, 2026, to complete elections and enrollments for the 2026 crop year under USDA farm safety net programs. Producers must choose between Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) through their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices.
Farm operators can select ARC-County (ARC-CO) or PLC coverage on a crop-by-crop basis within each FSA farm unit. They may also choose ARC-Individual (ARC-IC), which provides coverage for the entire farming operation.
The later-than-usual election deadline gives producers additional time to review available information before making decisions. The extended timeline follows recent base-acre allocations administered by the Farm Service Agency.
Both ARC and PLC programs are designed to help producers manage financial risks. ARC provides support when crop revenue falls below a guaranteed level, while PLC provides payments when market prices for eligible commodities drop below established reference prices.
Eligible crops include barley, canola, chickpeas, corn, flaxseed, grain sorghum, lentils, mustard seed, oats, peanuts, dry peas, rice, safflower seed, seed cotton, sesame, soybeans, sunflower seed, wheat, and several other covered commodities.
To assist with decision-making, North Dakota State University Extension has developed online tools that allow farmers to compare ARC and PLC options based on their operations. These resources can help producers evaluate potential benefits under different market conditions.
Producers seeking additional information are encouraged to contact their local FSA office or review USDA guidance. Making an informed election before the deadline can help ensure the most effective risk-management strategy for their farming operation.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Government & Policy