The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Friday announced $1 billion in one-time payments for specialty crop farmers facing market disruptions and rising costs. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) program will provide bridge payments to commodities not covered under the previously announced Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program. The aid is intended to offset losses tied to inflation, higher input costs, and foreign trade practices that have limited exports. The program is authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and will be administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). Eligible crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and other specialty products, ranging from apples and grapes to tomatoes, sweet corn, and watermelons. Government payments will be based on 2025 planted acreage. Producers must ensure their 2025 acres reported to their local FSA office are accurate by 4 p.m. Central Time on March 13. Commodity-specific payment rates are expected by the end of March. Local producers who are unsure of their eligibility are encouraged to contact their local FSA office.