This week the U.S. Department of Agriculture extended the deadline for farmers to report spring seeded crop acreage in 12 states. The new July 22 deadline for reporting to county FSA offices and crop insurance agents applies to producers in Minnesota, Iowa and North Dakota. Minnesota State Farm Service Agency Director Joe Martin says the extension was due to planting delays resulting from flooding and excessive moisture received this year.

He says it’s been an unusual weather year and southwest Minnesota was hit the hardest in the state by extreme moisture levels and flooding.

Martin says the reporting deadline has also been move to July 22 for prevented planting acres.

Martin says farmers must report their acreage to be eligible for USDA programs. Producers are encouraged to set up an appointment before visiting their county FSA office.