USDA's Risk Management Agency has announced expanded coverage for forage production to include dryland timothy and orchardgrass types under the federal crop insurance program for the 2016 crop year. Areas where the new coverage will be offered include Benewah and Kootenai counties in Idaho and in Pend Oreille, Spokane and Stevens counties in Washington.

USDA's Risk Management Agency broadens crop insurance coverage for some counties in Idaho and Washington to include new hay types. (Photo: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

September 30 is the sales closing date, and the last day to purchase or modify a producer's policy, for all forage production in Idaha, Oregon and Washington. Forage production insurance provides coverage for forage grown for livestock and forage production is only available in select counties in Idaho, Oregon and Washington. There are various forage types available for coverage. If insurance coverage for a producer’s forage type is not available in their county, they may be able to insure their type by written agreement.

Producers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2016 crop year. Crop insurance coverage decisions must be made on or before the sales closing date.

Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available at all USDA Service Centers and online at the RMA Agent Locator. Producers can use the RMA Cost Estimator to get a premium amount estimate of their insurance needs online.

Source: USDA