Complete list of the 15 insurance companies designated by the USDA to write crop insurance policies.
Because of the inherent risks and potential for widespread catastrophic losses associated with agricultural production, insuring farmers and ranchers has always posed a challenge.
Indemnity payments to farmers on crop losses so far in 2011 have exceeded nearly $9 billion, with more claims yet to be processed. To see final numbers for 2010, please click here.
Essentially, there are two kinds of crop insurance: crop-hail and multiple peril. Crop-hail policies are not part of the Federal crop insurance program. These coverages are provided directly to producers from private insurers.
Crop insurance helps make America's farmers and ranchers world leaders in agriculture, allowing producers to stay competitive and be more innovative.