USDA Updates Forms for Disaster and Biomass Aid
Published Date: 6/18/2026
Notice
Summary
The Farm Service Agency is updating the forms and info they collect for two programs that help farmers fix disaster damage and grow biomass crops. If you’re a farmer or landowner, these changes could affect how you apply for help and get payments. They want your feedback by August 17, 2026, so don’t miss the chance to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
BCAP Has No Recent Activity Due To No Funding
The notice states that activity related to the Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP) did not change since the last OMB submission because there has been a lack of BCAP funding. If you are an owner or operator hoping for BCAP funding to establish or produce biomass feedstocks, there has been no BCAP activity recently.
ECP Responds to Disaster-Driven Requests
The notice explains that the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) provides funding and technical help to restore farmland damaged by natural disasters and for emergency water conservation in droughts. From 2024–2026, ECP requests, approvals, and payments have fluctuated due to multiple hurricanes, wildfires, and floods.
Paperwork Changes and Comment Window
The Farm Service Agency is proposing revisions to the information it collects for the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP). The notice identifies OMB Control Number 0560-0082 (expiration December 31, 2026) and asks for public comments by August 17, 2026. The agency estimates 10,000 respondents, 100,300 total annual responses, and 12,427 total annual burden hours.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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