News

Specialty crop insurance expanded

USDA is expanding fresh fruit and nut specialty crop insurance coverage options. U.S. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says coverage will be available beginning in the 2016 crop year.

“We’ve been making a concerted effort over the last several years following the passage of the farm bill of creating an expansion of these opportunities for specialty crops.”

Vilsack tells Brownfield a Supplemental Coverage Option and the Actual Production History Yield Exclusion will be available to growers.

This announcement includes crop insurance coverage in the Midwest for apples, blueberries, grapes, peaches, potatoes and tomatoes.

Vilsack says farmers can sign up and learn more on the RMA website.

AUDIO: Interview with Secretary Vilsack (4:32 mp3):