USDA launches crop acreage reporting pilot program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced the launch of a pilot program to modernize crop acreage reporting. The initiative is part of USDA’s One Farmer, One File effort to simplify recordkeeping and improve the crop acreage reporting process. According to the USDA website, “July 15 is a major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines may vary by county and by crop.” 

The pilot program will allow producers and FSA staff to complete acreage reports electronically, reducing paperwork while improving consistency and operational efficiency. All producers in Maryland and North Dakota will participate, while those in selected counties in California, Colorado, Florida, Kansas, Ohio and Texas are also taking part.  

According to the list provided on the USDA website, crop acreage reports must include:      

• Irrigation practice(s)      

• Crop and crop type or variety      

• Intended crop use      

• Number of crop acres      

• Map with approximate crop boundaries      

• Planting date(s)      

• Planting pattern, when applicable      

• Producer share(s)      

• Acreage prevented from planting, when applicable   

• Failed acres, if applicable