USDA California Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Val Dolcini reminds producers that enrollment for the Direct and Counter-cyclical Program (DCP) or the Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) Program for crop year 2012 begins Jan. 23 and runs through June 1, 2012.

"California farmers who are interested in enrolling in these programs need to add this important deadline to their watch list,” Dolcini said. "Producers should contact the local county office now to set up appointments."

Annual contracts are required to be signed to receive program benefits. All signatures of producers receiving a share in DCP and ACRE payments are required by June 1, 2012.

For more information about DCP and ACRE programs or other FSA programs, contact your county FSA office and visit the state FSA website at: www.fsa.usda.gov/ca.