Maryland Apiculture and Pasture, Rangeland and Forage Crop Insurance Deadline is Nov. 15; Deadline for Insurance on Apples and Peaches is Nov. 20

Annapolis, MD — The Maryland Department of Agriculture reminds Maryland beekeepers and pasture, rangeland and forage (PRF) producers that the Rainfall Index program is available in Maryland, and Nov. 15 is the final date for producers to apply for crop insurance. Rainfall Index is a group risk policy that covers apiculture as well as forage and livestock producers’ forage produced for grazing or harvested for hay. The Rainfall Index uses National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data. Insurance payments to a producer who suffers a loss are calculated on the deviation from normal precipitation within the area and time period selected. Visit the nationwide insurance coverage map.

The nationwide insurance coverage webpage has a mapping tool to locate which land is insurable. It also has historical data, coverage details, and a premium calculator. For more information, log on to the RMA Web site.

The deadline for Maryland apple and peach growers to obtain crop insurance on next year’s crop is November 20. Current policyholders also have until Nov. 20 to make any changes to their existing contracts. Price elections for 2014 will be $17.30 per bushel for fresh apples, $3.25 for processing apples, $22.00 per bushel for fresh peaches, and $6.75 for processing peaches. Crop insurance provides coverage against production losses due to damage caused by natural perils and adverse weather conditions such as hail, wind, frost, and drought. The actual amount of coverage will be determined from actual yields and the protection level selected. Fruit producers should consider making crop insurance an essential part of their overall risk management plan to help protect their operations from financial loss. Growers are encouraged to contact a local crop insurance agent as soon as possible for more detailed information and premium quotes.

For a list of crop insurance agents in your area, contact the local USDA Farm Service Agency office or log on to the following Risk Management Agency Web.

For more information contact Steve Connelly (410) 841-5824

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