On today’s episode of the AgNet News Hour, Richard Fordyce, USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, discussed billions of dollars in upcoming farm safety-net payments and new opportunities for growers through federal conservation programs. The show also featured Gary Thompson, co-founder of GUSS Automation, who shared the latest developments in autonomous spraying technology.
Fordyce announced that USDA is distributing approximately $13.8 billion nationwide through the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs, a substantial increase from approximately $1.9 billion distributed during the comparable period last year.
The increase reflects higher reference prices established through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, providing additional financial support to eligible producers facing lower commodity prices or production challenges.
Fordyce explained that payments are based on the 2025 crop year, with calculations reflecting local agricultural conditions. California rice growers are among the producers who may qualify, depending on their program enrollment and eligibility.
While enrollment for the 2025 crop has already closed, Fordyce encouraged producers to contact their local Farm Service Agency office about enrolling for the 2026 crop. Enrollment for the 2027 crop is scheduled to open November 5.
Fordyce also highlighted USDA’s regenerative agriculture pilot program, which emphasizes soil health through conservation practices and soil testing. Unlike ARC and PLC, the regenerative program is administered through the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Earlier in the program, Thompson discussed how GUSS autonomous sprayers are becoming more efficient through improved navigation software, simplified controls and detailed performance reporting.
Thompson said one supervisor can oversee as many as eight autonomous machines, helping growers address labor shortages while improving spraying efficiency.
New performance reports track spray coverage, application rates, refill times and equipment interruptions, allowing operators to identify opportunities to improve productivity.
According to Thompson, GUSS machines have now sprayed more than 3 million acres autonomously, demonstrating the growing role of automation in commercial agriculture.
Together, the interviews explore two important developments for California growers: expanded federal financial assistance and emerging technology designed to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Hear the full conversations with Richard Fordyce and Gary Thompson in the player above or on your favorite podcast app.
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