RALEIGH, N.C., Feb. 12, 2021 — The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Massachusetts growers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage on most spring-planted crops for the 2021 crop year is March 15. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing policies also have until March 15 to do so. Growers also have until March 15 to apply for coverage under the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection policy.

Federal crop insurance is critical to the farm safety net. It helps producers and owners manage revenue risks and strengthens the rural economy. Coverage for corn, fresh market sweet corn, potatoes, soybeans and tobacco is available in select counties. Additional information can be found on the Actuarial Information Browser page on the RMA website.

Crop insurance coverage for soybeans has been expanded for the 2021 crop year to include Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester counties.

Growers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2021 crop year. Additional crops may be eligible for coverage under a written agreement. Crop insurance coverage decisions must be made on or before the sales closing date.

RMA is authorizing additional flexibilities due to coronavirus while continuing to support producers, working through Approved Insurance Providers (AIPs) to deliver services, including processing policies, claims, and agreements. RMA staff are working with AIPs and other customers by phone, mail, and electronically to continue supporting crop insurance coverage for producers. Farmers with crop insurance questions or needs should continue to contact their insurance agents about conducting business remotely (by telephone or email). More information can be found at farmers.gov/coronavirus.

Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available online using the RMA Agent Locator. Producers can use the RMA Cost Estimator to get a premium amount estimate of their insurance needs online. Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at www.rma.usda.gov.