Following Fedorchak push, USDA provides drought flexibility for North Dakota producers

Fargo, ND - Following Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak's (R-ND) request for greater flexibility for North Dakota farmers and ranchers facing severe drought, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that producers may request an extension to the 15-day timeframe for removing hay bales on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) lands by contacting their local county FSA office.

Fedorchak raised the issue with USDA after meeting with farmers and ranchers at Kuhn Farms near Dickinson last week. During the roundtable, producers shared concerns about drought conditions and federal emergency haying rules, including the 15-day deadline for removing hay bales. The discussion was part of a broader conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing western North Dakota agriculture.

"This is perfect example of a timeline established in Washington that doesn't make sense in the field. The last thing farmers need in the middle of harvest is an short, arbitrary timeline squeezing them," Fedorchak said. "I'm grateful for the producers who shared this feedback at my roundtable and I appreciate Secretary Rollins and USDA for listening and responding so quickly. I encourage any producer who needs additional time to contact their local county office and request an extension."

North Dakota producers who need additional time beyond the 15-day period should contact their local county office to request an extension.