Some CRP pacts can be extended

USDA's Farm Service Agency will offer certain producers the opportunity to modify and extend their Conservation Reserve Program contracts that are scheduled to expire Sept. 30.

USDA can only extend about 1.5 million acres out of a total 3.9 million acres expiring this year. This extension will ensure that FSA meets the statutory CRP acreage limitation of 32 million acres established in the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008.

FSA began notifying participants by letter this week. The sign-up for the voluntary extension will begin May 18 and end June 30. Farmers and ranchers may apply for the extension at FSA county offices. FSA administers CRP on behalf of the Commodity Credit Corporation.

For details, stop by a county FSA office or visit www.fsa.usda.gov.