Washington, D.C. - Representative Reid Ribble (WI-08) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the implementation of the dairy margin insurance program:

“As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I worked hard to craft a dairy program that would serve the totality of Wisconsin’s diverse dairy industry.  The 2014 Farm Bill replaced outdated programs with a gross margin insurance program that will help dairy farmers to manage their risk during difficult times.”

“I am pleased that USDA is moving forward and implementing the program in a timely manner.  In recent months I have led efforts in Congress to urge the Department to structure the program to work effectively for producers of all sizes.  I thank USDA for agreeing to my request.”

“I also appreciate the work being done by Wisconsin’s agriculture and dairy leaders to help farmers get up to speed about the margin insurance program.  I urge all Wisconsin dairy producers to take advantage of the opportunities available to them in the weeks ahead.”

Dairy farmers may enroll in the new program for 2014 and 2015 from September 2 until November 28, 2014.  Farmers interested in signing up should visit their county Farm Service Agency office.

The University of Wisconsin – Cooperative Extension is holding informational meetings around the state to help inform dairy producers about the program. Click here for a full list of sessions statewide.  Below is a list of those sessions occurring in Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District.

September 2               Birnamwood, WI                        Matsche Center/Village Hall
                                                                                    362 Railroad Street
                                                                                    1:15 PM

September 3               Cecil, WI                                   Cecil Village Hall
                                                                                    111 E. Hofman Street
                                                                                    9:45 AM

                                   New London, WI                        Crystal Falls
                                                                                    1500 Handschke Drive
                                                                                    1:15 PM

September 4               Kiel, WI                                     Millhome Supper Club
                                                                                    16524 Lax Chapel Road
                                                                                    9:45 AM

                                   Green Bay, WI                           Brown Co. Extension Office
                                                                                    1150 Bellevue Street
                                                                                    1:15 PM

September 5              Kimberly, WI                               9:00 AM
                                                                                    Please contact my office for details.

Click here to read about Congressman Ribble's efforts to shape this program to benefit Wisconsin's vast dairy industry.