Soybean growers show support for double-cropping proposals

The American Soybean Association (ASA) has given its opinion of the Risk Management Agency’s (RMA) proposals to improve double-cropping and replanting provisions of the basic crop insurance policy.

The RMA had previously asked for comments on the suggestions given on providing greater flexibility in determining double-crop eligibility, providing full coverage on both crops, and the basis for double-cropping qualification.

“Issues and problems with existing double-crop provisions have emerged in several soybean-growing states," ASA President Richard Wilkins wrote. "As farmers respond to new market opportunities and changing demand, ASA’s priority is that the crop insurance program support market signals, rather than getting in the way."

For the most part, ASA is in favor of the measure.

“ASA supports the proposed alternative, which would allow eligible double-cropping acres to be based on either the greatest number of acres, or percentage of acres historically double-cropped, rather than the greatest number of acres double-cropped in two of the last four crop years in which the first insured crop was planted," Wilkins wrote. "We support the recommendation from Mid-Atlantic region growers that full coverage of both crops in a double cropping rotation – even if a new rotation – be offered if local agricultural experts certify that the crop combination is a good farming practice in the county.”