$15.25 MILLION AVAILABLE TO FUND RISK MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES
James Callan 202-720-8812
Raegan Weber 202-720-6200
WASHINGTON, Jun 19, 2003 - USDA's Risk Management Agency (RMA) recently published
notification in the Federal Register on requests for proposals for $15.25 million in
partnership opportunities to conduct targeted research, education and outreach
projects. Applicants have 45 days from the date of publication to apply.
These agreements are part of an overall effort outlined by Agriculture Secretary Ann
M. Veneman to identify and develop new risk management tools and strategies, provide
educational opportunities to underserved producers, and ensure the financial soundness
of the crop insurance delivery system.
"Providing producers the best available information will assist them in better
mitigating farm risks," said RMA Administrator Ross J. Davidson Jr. "As a result, we're
striving to expand the risk management options and educational possibilities for all
producers."
Partnership Opportunities
Under Section 522(d) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act (Act), funds are available for:
1. Research and Development. Selected projects will research and develop risk management
tools for a wide range of producers and needs. Priorities include development of products to
assist producers of livestock, rangeland, forage, and salmon; and, the development of risk
management tools to address organic, labor and multi-year loss risks. Total funding for projects
in this category is approximately $4 million.
2. Community Outreach. Priority will be provided for outreach and assistance to women,
limited resource and socially disadvantaged producers. Funding for projects in this category
is approximately $3.5 million.
3. Commodity Partnerships for Risk Management Education. Selected projects will provide
risk management training for producers of (a) crops that are not covered by crop insurance; (b)
specialty crops; and (c) underserved commodities. The program is national in scope. Total
funding for projects in this category is approximately $3.5 million.
Under Section 524(a) of the Act, funds are available for:
4. Crop Insurance Education in Targeted States. Award recipients will provide crop insurance
education and information programs to producers in fifteen states designated as underserved.
Total funding for projects in this category is $4.25 million.
RMA will have substantial involvement in any project awarded. Information concerning
partnership opportunities will be posted at www.rma.usda.gov
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