SAINT PAUL, Minn., Oct. 11, 2016 – USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin producers that the final date to apply for crop insurance for perennial crops such as apples, cranberries and tart cherries is November 20 for the 2017 crop year. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the November 20 sales closing date to do so.

Crop insurance provides protection against crop production losses due to natural perils such as drought, hail, and excessive moisture. Producers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2017 crop year. Agents can help producers determine what policy works best for their operation and review existing coverage to ensure the policy meets their needs.

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. Farmers 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.