Today’s Harvest Blog

Crop insurance is a vital tool for farmers and agribusinesses, helping to protect against financial losses caused by natural disasters and unpredictable market shifts. Understanding how crop insurance works — and the key organizations involved — empowers producers to make informed decisions about managing risk and safeguarding their livelihoods.

After perennial growers submit their crop year production and acreage changes, many assume crop insurance is set until a weather event occurs. However, as records are processed, a unit may be flagged by the Risk Management Agency (RMA) as having a yield variance. If left unaddressed, these flags can affect a unit’s production guarantee at claim time. Beginning with the 2026 crop year, this process has become more restrictive.

The spring sales closing date is one of the most important deadlines for crop insurance customers. It marks the final opportunity to purchase or adjust your coverage before the planting season begins. This date ensures that your risk management plan is locked in and ready to protect your operation throughout the growing season. Here’s what you need to know as the spring sales closing date approaches. 

As we enter 2026, now is an ideal time for producers to reflect on the past year’s challenges and achievements as you plan for the year ahead. With continued volatility across dairy and livestock markets, thoughtful planning will be critical to navigating uncertainty and protecting farm revenue.