3 Hazards You Didn’t Know Crop Insurance Could Protect Your Farm From

crop insuranceThere are 2.2 million farms in the United States, but not all of them may be getting the protection they need. Of the farms that have crops rather than livestock, they especially need insurance coverage to ensure that farmers’ products will continue to provide revenue for the farm. An estimated 97% of farms in the U.S. are family enterprises, so it’s not just about business — it’s also about protecting the investments and livelihoods of American families.

The best way to ensure that family and privately owned farms stay up and running is to take out an adequate crop insurance policy. Crop insurance is designed to protect farmers from loss, so they can continue to run their businesses effectively. In general, this is a type of product liability insurance for fresh produce and farm goods, which typically provides up to $1 million per occurrence with no deductible, depending upon the policy. This helps farmers get reimbursed for any losses they incur.

But how might these losses happen? Here are just three things that crop insurance can protect farmers from:

  • Frost: In some parts of the country, frost can have devastating effects on a farm and its profits. If cold weather sets in early, farmers need to be protected from the damage that can occur.
  • Natural disasters: From tornadoes and hurricanes to wildfires and floods, farmers need to be prepared for the worst. If a farm is in an area where such inclement weather is at risk to strike, an insurance policy to protect crops is a necessity.
  • Theft: Unfortunately, it’s also possible for crops to be intentionally destroyed or stolen, which can cut into revenue. Farmers with insurance for crops don’t have to worry about losing money if they have the right coverage.

Crops aren’t the only thing on a farm that needs protecting, however. Farm and ranch insurance can provide coverage for livestock, barns, outbuildings, and sheds, and there are even special farmers home insurance policies and health insurance coverage for farm workers, too. If you think you may need coverage or want to look into a new policy, make sure to get a quote as soon as possible.