USDA Offering Payments To Nevada Asparagus Farmers

RENO, Nev. (AP) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering Nevada asparagus producers financial compensation for marketing losses resulting from imports during the 2004 through 2007 crop years.

USDA Farm Service Agency Nevada state executive Clint Koble announced Monday in Reno that producers can apply for compensation through April 8.

Koble says the Asparagus Revenue Market Loss Assistance Payment Program aims to help commercial producers whose livelihoods were affected when asparagus imports dramatically increased during those years.

A one-time payment can total up to $1.06 per pound for fresh market asparagus and $1.08 per pound for asparagus marketed for processing.

Payments are calculated based on 2003 marketed production quantities.

Koble says producers with an average gross income in excess of $2.5 million for calendar years 2003, 2004 and 2005 aren't eligible.