The USDA made changes to the federal crop insurance program in 2016 intended to increase farmers’ flexibility in managing their land. These changes particularly increase coverage for farmers who add new land to their operations or who “double crop”, rotating crops on the same field within a single year.
Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Michael Scuse says the adjustments are part of an effort to “better reflect current agricultural practices” in a time when crop prices are down and farmers are looking for creative ways to maximize the productivity of their land.
These changes will take effect for most crops in 2017, beginning with winter wheat. The USDA press release says these changes come in response to requests directly from farmers.
“We are constantly looking for ways to meet the needs of our farmers and seek out their feedback so we can best provide them with the tools and resources they need to grow and support their operations,” Scuse said.