Hog producers who sold hogs through a spot market sale during the COVID-19 pandemic now have until April 15, 2022, to submit their applications for the USDA’s Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program (SMHPP). SMHPP, which is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative, originally had a deadline to submit applications by this Friday, Feb. 25.
“We are thrilled to see the deadline extended and look forward to getting further communication on the program and if the guidelines have changed so we can share the details immediately,” said Illinois Pork Producers Association (IPPA) executive director Jennifer Tirey.
On Tuesday, Illinois pork producers shared their frustrations over the uncertainties surrounding SMHPP.
The program is intended to help hog producers who sold hogs through a spot market sale from April 16, 2020, through Sept. 1, 2020, the period during hog producers faced the greatest reduction in market prices due to the pandemic. USDA said it is offering SMHPP in response to a reduction in packer production and supply chain issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in fewer negotiated hogs being procured and subsequent lower market prices.
“The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) appreciates FSA extending the application deadline as they consider adjustments to SMHPP. It is important that the program reflects the many ways in which hog producers were forced to sell during the covered timeframe and it is essential that producers are able to continue applying during and after any adjustment period,” NPPC said in a statement to Farm Journal’s PORK.
USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) began accepting applications for SMHPP on Dec. 15, 2021.
“In response to stakeholder feedback and our analysis of the program to date, we will be making adjustments to clarify the definition of a spot market sale and to hog eligibility, while including documentation requirements to prevent erroneous payments,” FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux said in a release. “We’ll be announcing those updates soon and want to assure hog producers that there will be ample time to submit their applications for assistance.”
How to Apply for Assistance
Eligible hog producers can apply for SMHPP by completing the FSA-940, Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program application. Visit farmers.gov/smhpp to learn more.
Applications can be submitted to the FSA office at any USDA Service Center nationwide by mail, fax, hand delivery or via electronic means. Producers can also call 877-508-8364 to speak directly with a USDA employee ready to offer assistance.
Read more:
Frustrated Pork Producers Raise Questions About Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program
