Prevented Planting

Prevented planting has become a major concern for North Dakota farmers due to recent changes in federal crop insurance rules. The USDA’s Risk Management Agency has eliminated the prevented-planting “buy-up” option beginning with the 2026 crop year, reducing the level of coverage farmers can choose if wet weather or flooding prevents them from planting on time. Because North Dakota frequently faces excess moisture and delayed springs, many farmers relied on this option as a key risk-management tool. NDGGA has raised concerns that eliminating the buy-up option weakens the farm safety net and increases financial risk, and is urging USDA and Congress to restore or revise the policy.

Farmer Bridge Assistance Program

The Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program announced the 2025 payment rates.

• Wheat: $39.95 per acre
• Barley: $20.51 per acre

The FBA payment limit is $155,000 per producer. Eligible farmers will receive a pre-filled application in February to review and submit. If FSA has not sent a pre-filled application, contact your local FSA office to confirm your status and next steps.

NDGGA Leaders Advocate for North Dakota Wheat at MWCA Annual Meeting

NDGGA leaders participated in the Midwest Council on Agriculture’s (MWCA) Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., December 16–18, 2026, to advocate for policies supporting Midwest agriculture and North Dakota wheat. Represented by Jarred Billadeau and Nick Sinner, NDGGA engaged in policy discussions, heard economic and legislative updates, and met with key members of Congress from Midwestern states to address issues such as trade, workforce, and farm regulations. Billadeau said the meetings were productive and emphasized NDGGA’s continued commitment to telling the story of North Dakota wheat in Washington.

2025 Prairie Grains Conference

Thank you to all who joined us at the 2025 Prairie Grains Conference, and a special thank you to the Minnesota Association of Wheat Growers for all their efforts. We are proud to join with industry leaders and producers working towards the betterment of agriculture in North Dakota.

Where We’re Advocating

• U.S. Grains Bio-Products Council 23rd International Marketing Conference & 66th Annual Membership Meeting | February 11 – 13, 2026 in Panama City, Panama
• Wheat Quality Council 2026 Annual Meeting | February 17 – 19, 2026 in Olathe, Kansas
• Commodity Classic – 2026 | February 24-27, 2026 in San Antonio, TX
• USDA Ag Outlook Forum | February 26-27, 2026 in Arlington, VA
• NDGGA Washington, DC Fly-In | March 2 – 5, 2026