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Action Alert for Vineyard Owners USDA Deadline March 13 2026

Many vineyard owners may qualify for new federal financial assistance, but an important first deadline is approaching.

The US Department of Agriculture has created the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers program to provide financial support to growers affected by recent market disruptions. Wine grapes are included as an eligible specialty crop.

For grape growers, the most important immediate requirement is acreage reporting.

To remain eligible for payments, growers must ensure that their 2025 planted grape acreage is accurately reported with the Farm Service Agency by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on March 13, 2026.

Go here for additional information and to file https://www.fsa.usda.gov/resources/programs/farmer-bridge-assistance-fba-program 

This step is required even if the vineyard has reported acreage in prior years. Payments under the program will be calculated based on reported 2025 planted acres.

After acreage is confirmed with FSA, eligible growers will be able to submit an application for the payment through the USDA system or through their local FSA office.

What vineyard owners should do now

  1. Confirm whether your vineyard has a current Farm Service Agency acreage report on file for the 2025 crop year.

  2. If acreage has not yet been reported, contact your local FSA office immediately to complete the filing.

  3. Gather documentation that may be requested, such as ownership records, lease agreements, or property tax documentation.

For anyone who owns a vineyard, timely acreage reporting will be the key step to preserve eligibility for this program.