Farm Service Agency’s, Lee Crawford, Freeborn County Executive Director, encourages producers to obtain acceptable quality test documentation for 2011 Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments. Sign-up for 2011 crop losses under the SURE program will be accepted in the fall of 2012. SURE takes into account production losses and quality losses resulting from eligible adverse weather events.

FSA County Committees may request approval of quality adjustment factors for 2011 crops impacted by quality issues such as low test weight, high moisture, low protein, etc., producers are reminded of the importance of obtaining acceptable quality test documentation by the Jan. 1, 2012, deadline to ensure they maximize potential SURE benefits.

If producers believe their quality for a specific crop is less than the county average, they are urged to consider having the crop tested. If forage and grain crops are produced for feed on the farm, producers should have quality tests and production determinations performed prior to feeding. Producers intent on storing crops until Jan. 1, 2012, may want to consider having the entire crop measured and tested.

The quantity of production associated with the quality test must be identified and determined by a third party. Documentation submitted to support a producer’s quality loss must be verifiable and contain specific production information related to the quality affected crop.

Acceptable third party documentation:

Sales evidence that shows a reduction in price or grade

Tests from a state university or approved lab

Actual measurements or appraisals by FSA, Risk Management Agency or reinsured companies

Unacceptable documentation:

• Certifications
• Estimates
• Producer ledgers
• LP gas receipts
• Combine monitor printouts

Producers with questions regarding 2011 crop quality requirements should contact their local FSA County Office or visit www.fsa.usda.gov/sure.