U.S. Department of Agriculture crop insurance coverage for organic producers is being expanded to 57 crops, starting in 2016 and continuing through the 2017 growing season with contact price options for 73 crops.
This expansion for farmers and ranchers and is supported by the National Farmers Union (NFU) which represents 200,000 family farmers and ranchers.
“Whether organic or conventional, if you have crops in the ground, you face the risk of losing a harvestable crop to an unexpected weather event or natural disaster,” NFU President Roger Johnson said. “Producers transitioning to organic agriculture face an added level of risk in that their transitioning crop values had not been properly reflected in their crop insurance policies. I am pleased to see USDA expand its insurance coverage for transitioning producers.”
The rise in popularity of sales for organic food has been steady for the last few years, making it important for organic crop insurance coverage to expand. In 2014, sales of organic crops exceeded $39 billion. Organic crops are a good opportunity for farmers and ranchers who have the proper tools to add to their harvest and profits.
“Choice and diversity of agricultural practices have always been essential to the success and prosperity of agriculture in the United States.” Johnson said, “It is important for the farm safety net to work for all producers regardless of the crops they grow.”
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