WASHINGTON – Nearly $20 million was paid to U.S. sheep producers during the last year, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture representatives addressing the American Sheep Industry Association’s 2001 annual convention in Reno, Nev.
This figure includes more than $12 million paid to producers for ram purchases and facility and genetic improvements through year one of the Lamb Meat Adjustment Assistance Program.
Ohio benefits.
States receiving the highest level of payments were S.D., Iowa, Texas, Minn. and Ohio. USDA representatives have informed ASI that Farm Service Agency offices should receive authorization to make payments for year two of the program with actual payments going out Feb. 10.
Producers began to sign up for year two feeder lamb and slaughter lamb payments on Aug. 1, 2000, and sign-up continues through the end of the payment year, which is July 31, 2001, following which signups for year three begins.
More payouts.
In addition, as of Jan. 19, USDA had paid out approximately $8.9 million in wool and mohair payments, of which $7.47 million was for wool based on the 1999 clip.
Sign-up for payments of 40 cents per pound based on the 2000 clip will begin soon and conclude April 13.
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