U.S. Congressman Bill Enyart (IL-12) announced two new programs from the USDA specifically geared toward assisting farmers. Programs include the Non-Insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program and a new website aimed at assisting farmers. The programs will reduce upfront costs and make entering the business easier.

"The number of new farmers in Southern Illinois is on the rise," said Enyart. "These policies will ease the incredible capital costs of getting into farming. They demonstrate the critical aspects of the Farm Bill that will help maintain the strong agriculture tradition that is so important to Southern Illinois."

The Non-Insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) offers assistance and risk management tools for farmers who grow crops but are not eligible for crop insurance. It protects against low yields and devastation that can result from natural disasters like drought or flooding. These services are available for the 2014 crop year with no service fee for new farmers. For those who have already paid the service fee, refunds are available.

"Our farmers feed and fuel the world," Enyart added. "Those entering this profession deserve the certainty and security that come with these policies."

In addition to the NAP program, the USDA is also launching a new website -a one stop shop for novice farmers and ranchers. At the site, users can find information on how to improve access to land and capital, grow market opportunities for crops, engage in conservation activities, learn more about risk management tools, and access USDA education and technical support programs. These tools are available at www.usda.gov/newfarmers.

Source- http://insurancenewsnet.com/