The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is expediting efforts to get $10 billion in economic relief payments into the hands of farmers as planting season looms on the horizon.

The USDA opened applications March 19 for the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP), which provides payments to offset losses incurred during the 2024 crop year.

“Producers are facing higher costs and market uncertainty, and the Trump administration is ensuring they get the support they need without delay,” Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said last week. “With clear direction from Congress, USDA has prioritized streamlining the ...