USDA Issues Reminder to Sign-Up for Wool and Unshorn Pelt LDP

January 13, 2006 -- With the 2006 shearing season underway, the U.S. Department of Agriculture?s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has issued a reminder to sheep producers to sign up for loan deficiency payments (LDP).

Producers can complete page one of the CCC 633EZ form. By doing this, they indicate their intent to receive an LDP for this crop year and have covered the beneficial-interest provision for wool and unshorn pelts. At the time the producer is ready to request the LDP, then page two of the form can be completed for wool and the CCC 709 Pelt or 633 Pelt can be completed to apply on unshorn slaughter lambs.

?I encourage sheep producers to file the intent to receive an LDP on the 2006 crop,? stated Peter Orwick, executive director for the American Sheep Industry Association. ?The intent page does not set the date your LDP will be calculated, but it does cover the application for beneficial interest.

?Producers that core test their wool should review the graded LDP rates as they have been paying more than the standard ungraded wool LDP this winter. If producers plan to sell unshorn slaughter lambs, it is well worth applying for the pelt LDP as well.?

FSA has also announced that a revised CCC 633EZ form will soon be available. For convenience the new form combines the wool and pelt applications.

According to Orwick, ?This is positive as not all producers have reviewed the pelt program which is available on unshorn slaughter lambs. Putting both programs on the same form will highlight the opportunity to participate.?

For additional details, visit your local FSA office or the FSA website at: http://www.fsa.usda.gov.

Staff contact: Peter Orwick, ext. 33