A news release last week from USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) indicated that, “Crop insurance for beekeeper operations has been expanded to include 19 additional states and now spans the entire 48 contiguous states. The [RMA] today announced changes to the Apiculture Pilot Insurance (API) plan, ensuring greater protection for the producers’ honey, pollen collection, wax, and breeding stock.
“‘Expanding this coverage so that more producers can participate in the Federal crop insurance program strengthens the rural economy through a broader farm safety net,’ said RMA Acting Administrator Heather Manzano. ‘This provides increased support for beekeepers who play a critical role in agriculture.’
“Apiculture systems are diverse, with varying types of plant species and climate conditions. API is designed to cover the unique precipitation requirements of different regions across the nation.”
The RMA update added that, “Producers have until Nov. 15, 2017 to enroll in API coverage for the 2018 crop year. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of agents is available at all USDA Service Centers and online at the RMA Agent Locator.
“Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at: https://www.rma.usda.gov.”
