FSA MASC update
Blog Title: Navigating the MASC Funds Update: What We Learned
Introduction
Hello everyone and welcome back. Today, I want to share some updates with you about the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) funds that were available for application through the Farm Service Agency. These funds were available starting in December and went into early January. Recently, we started hearing about applicants receiving notifications regarding their eligibility for this financial support.
Understanding MASC Funds Distribution
The MASC funds are designed to assist based on a sliding scale. This scale depends on the income reported specifically for raw goods, such as cut flowers, excluding costs affiliated with design work or consultation services. Until all applications were received, there was some ambiguity regarding the specific ratio or percentage of reported income that would be reimbursed through the program.
Last week marked the beginning of notifications sent to applicants on whether they were accepted or denied. Unfortunately, we hadn't received any communication, neither via email nor from our local Farm Service Agency.
I reached out to the agent who assisted me at our local branch, seeking clarity. She suggested I check in this week due to the federal government's ongoing transitions, which added to my anxiety about our application's status. No news typically indicates uncertainty, so I was bracing for a possible denial.
Receiving Good News
This week, curiosity prompted me to contact her again with questions and concerns, particularly about the possibility of funds being frozen. To my relief, she replied promptly, confirming that funds would indeed be available to us. We had been accepted and could expect a direct deposit into our bank account soon. Later that day, I received notification of transfer completion. Seeing the funds fully transferred was a huge relief.
Our reimbursement amounted to less than 2% of our reported income from raw goods. It appears that the return percentage varies, with potentially larger returns for smaller farms reporting less income, while larger farms may receive a smaller percentage.
Changes and Observations
Interestingly, they extended the application deadline by a few days and increased the overall available funds to any one business. This leap from $125,000 to $900,000 is substantial. If we're getting back less than 2%, one wonders what kind of income larger stakeholders reported for such significant financial support. It seems they catered to big agriculture, possibly even international businesses.
Reflection and Encouragement
Despite the process's enigma, any assistance is valued. If your application status remains unknown, I urge you to contact your Farm Service Agency representative for an update. Many of you applied at my encouragement, and I genuinely hope you receive good news. If not, your insights on the process would be greatly appreciated.
Stay positive, keep connected, and let's unravel this process to better equip ourselves for future opportunities like this. Wishing you all well, and I look forward to sharing more soon. Until next time, take care.