05.18.2005

USDA TOBACCO BUYOUT PROGRAM EXTENDS THROUGH JUNE 17, 2005
From USDA

The Tobacco Transition Payment Program (TTPP), also known as the Tobacco Buyout Program, extends through June 17, 2005.  Quota holders who will be eligible for a payment are those who owned a farm on Oct. 22, 2004 to which a tobacco basic quota was assigned.

USDA has awarded a contract to Wachovia Corporation to help conduct an information campaign to make potential beneficiaries aware of the program and procedures.  Particular emphasis is supposed to be placed upon efforts to contact small and minority producers.  For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center, the National Tobacco Call Center at 1-866-887-0140, or the Farm Service Agency Web site at www.fsa.usda.gov/tobacco.