The executive director of the Georgia Citrus Association recently reminded fellow growers of the importance of reporting their citrus acreage to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA).
“Accurate acreage reporting is more than a box to check. It’s a powerful tool that directly impacts our ability to receive support, shape policy and respond to challenges,” Lindy Savelle stated. “Recently, programs like USDA’s Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops have provided crucial support, but eligibility often depends on having documented acreage on file with FSA.
“Beyond program eligibility, comprehensive acreage data strengthens our position as an industry. When natural disasters strike, or when we need to advocate for assistance or funding at the state or federal level, having a unified and accurate report of Georgia-grown citrus makes all the difference. If our reported numbers are low, it becomes difficult to make a case for the help we may desperately need. In addition, reported acreage plays a vital role in accessing crop insurance through USDA’s Risk Management Agency, which currently offers coverage in Georgia via written agreements. Without accurate data, this critical risk management tool remains underutilized and less available to our growers.
“Today, we estimate that nearly 5,000 acres of citrus are being grown in Georgia. However, only 1,887 of those acres are officially reported. This gap could cost us — not just in missed opportunities, but in recognition, resources, marketing efforts and support.
“We urge every grower to take the time to report their citrus acreage to their local FSA office. Doing so helps us all. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient citrus industry in Georgia.”
See the USDA website, How to Report Crop Acreage, for information about where and how to report by July 15.
Source: Georgia Citrus Association
Share this Post