(NAFB.com) – Signup for the Dairy Margin Coverage Program ends this Thursday, February 26. The National Milk Producers Federation is urging farmers to apply for the program as part of a risk management strategy that helps dairy producers weather economic swings. “Dairy Margin Coverage is an essential part of a dairy farmer’s business resilience,” said Gregg Doud, the president and CEO of NMPF. “Smaller farmers gain important protection against lower margins, while larger farmers gain catastrophic coverage at little or even no cost.” He added that the signup is the first since the program was reauthorized last year, and includes coverage improvements as well as a 25 percent premium reduction for a long-term commitment. “Farmers can benefit greatly from participating in a program that has literally helped thousands of dairies,” Doud said. Farmers who are interested in participating in the program can complete their paperwork in consultation with their local Farm Service Agency Office.