As America’s farmers and ranchers reflect back on this turbulent year, they’ll recall drought affecting much of America’s farmland, severe winds sweeping across Iowa, a record-breaking hurricane season and – oh yes – the COVID-19 crisis.
Throughout the difficulties farmers and ranchers faced in 2020, crop insurance was there to help them endure hardship and minimize risks so they can plant their crops again next year.
Tom Zacharias, president of National Crop Insurance Services (NCIS), spoke about the challenges of 2020 and the importance of the farm safety net with the National Association of Farm Broadcasting and RFD-TV.
“America’s farmers and ranchers never stopped their essential work of feeding America,” Zacharias said. “That’s why crop insurers, agents, adjusters and our partners at USDA have continually worked to support the farm community. It has been our priority to maintain our incredible record of service to the American farmer during this tough year.”
“It would be an understatement to say that farmers face an unpredictable future, but fortunately crop insurance is a predictable risk management tool,” Zacharias added.
Crop insurance is agriculture’s most effective and reliable risk management tool because it utilizes private-sector efficiencies and innovation to quickly deliver to the farm community.
And farmers and ranchers trust crop insurance. They purchased 1.1 million crop insurance policies in 2020 to protect nearly 400 million acres.
This proven record of success and the continued support of Congress has cemented crop insurance as the cornerstone of the farm safety net.
“No doubt, new uncertainties lie ahead, but we are stronger together,” Zacharias said. “America’s farmers and ranchers can rest easier knowing that their local crop insurance agents, adjusters, and crop insurance companies stand ready to quickly provide a helping hand when it is needed.”
2020 is a testament to the important role that crop insurance plays in not only protecting our food, fuel and fiber supply but also supporting millions of jobs along Main Streets throughout America. That is why it is critical that Congress keeps crop insurance affordable, widely available and economically viable.
Together, we navigated this difficult year and kept America growing. We’re looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish next year, and in the years to come.
