Most crop insurance programs are designed for commodity growers

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In: 27312, Agriculture, Pittsboro
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Date: Wed, 28 May 2008 11:14:01 -0400
From: Debbie Roos
Subject: RE: Chatham Chatlist #3136

Robert,

I appreciate your questions. Most crop insurance programs are designed for commodity growers producing just a few crops on large acreage. These programs are not designed for our diversified growers who often grow 75-100 different crops throughout the growing season. The USDA’s Risk Management Agency recently developed an insurance program for smaller diversified growers, but to date these programs have not proven cost effective for most small growers.

I have asked my friend and colleague Scott Marlow of Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI-USA), based here in Pittsboro, to share his insights into crop insurance. Scott has worked extensively in the areas of crop insurance and disaster assistance.

Thanks for your concern and support of our farmers,
Debbie

Debbie Roos
Agricultural Extension Agent
Organic and Sustainable Agriculture
North Carolina State University
North Carolina Cooperative Extension
Chatham County Center
Growing Small Farms Website:
http://www.growingsmallfarms.org
Post Office Box 279
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Phone: 919.542.8202    Fax: 919.542.8246

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