U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced that enrollment for the 2026 Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) Program is now open during the American Farm Bureau Federation Convention. The program provides financial assistance to dairy producers when the margin between the average feed cost and all-milk price falls below the coverage level selected by the producer.
Secretary Rollins emphasized the importance of supporting dairy farmers in a challenging economic environment. She said, “President Trump is making historic investments in the farm safety net and today’s announcement is one more action that supports our dairy producers by managing risk and strengthening markets so they can continue to provide wholesome nutrition for Americans. The Trump Administration will continue to stand with America’s farmers as the farm economy recovers from years of neglect under the last administration.”
Rollins also linked the program to broader efforts to promote domestic food security and support American agriculture. “Our mission to Make America Healthy Again continues after the recent release of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025-2030 announcement, with the upcoming purchase of U.S. grown food that will reach those in need, all while benefitting American farmers facing unfair actions from foreign competitors,” she added.
Administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), the DMC Program allows dairy producers to select a coverage level that meets their risk management needs. Producers will receive payments when market conditions result in the margin falling below their chosen level, helping to stabilize income and ensure continuity in milk production.
Dairy producers interested in enrolling must submit an application at their local FSA office and provide production records along with their selected coverage level. The enrollment deadline is February 26, 2026, and producers are encouraged to act early to ensure participation in the program.
By providing financial support tied to market margins, the Dairy Margin Coverage Program remains a vital tool for American dairy farmers, helping them manage risk while continuing to supply high-quality, nutritious milk and dairy products to U.S. consumers.
The USDA encourages all eligible dairy producers to contact their local FSA office for assistance with enrollment and to take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen farm financial stability in 2026.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.