WASHINGTON, D.C. (WNAX) – Farmers have faced historic planting delays this spring due to the weather. South Dakota Senator John Thune says as a result, many are taking prevented plant, but would much rather get their income from the market.

He says Congress is trying to get USDA to approve early harvest of cover crops on prevented plant acres to help livestock producers who need feed.

Thune says it would also help farmers if USDA would offer a general signup for the Conservation Reserve Program.

Thune says a general signup would benefit conservation interests, decrease crop surpluses and have a beneficial impact on prices.