June has brought an active weather season across parts of farm country, with tornadoes, hail, wind, excess moisture, washouts, and structural damage affecting many agricultural operations. According to a recent Brownfield Ag News report, at least eight tornadoes hit southwest Iowa on June 11, causing widespread crop and structural damage on many farms.

In the Brownfield report, Kaleb Tillman, a crop insurance agent with United Group Insurance in Shenandoah and Red Oak, said producers impacted by damaging storms should focus first on documenting losses and contacting their crop insurance agent.

From a crop insurance standpoint, early communication can help producers understand what needs to happen next. An agent can help review coverage, determine whether a claim should be filed, and explain what options may be available depending on the type and timing of the damage.

This is especially important early in the growing season, when replant may still be a possibility. Producers should not make replant decisions before contacting their crop insurance agent. Reaching out first allows the claim process to begin and gives the adjuster an opportunity to review the damage before next steps are taken.

If replanting or other field decisions are made before contacting the agent and beginning the claim process, coverage could be affected. Early communication helps producers understand what their policy requires and what steps should be taken before moving forward.

Once a claim is filed, timing can vary from one operation to another. A widespread storm system can create a heavy workload for adjusters, especially when damage covers a large area. Tillman noted that many producers in the area have been dealing with hail damage, wind damage, wet spots, washouts, and other weather-related concerns. These conditions can create a lot of moving parts for both producers and claims professionals.

For farmers, the main takeaway is to communicate early and work closely with their crop insurance agent and adjuster. For adjusters and other agricultural claims professionals, storm events like these highlight the importance of clear communication, timely inspections, coverage awareness, and helping producers understand the next step after a loss.

This season is also a reminder for growers to review their crop insurance coverage before future deadlines. Sales closing dates vary by crop and location, but the next major sales closing dates are Feb. 28, March 15, and April 15. Producers should work with their agent before applicable deadlines to review coverage levels, consider additional options such as wind or hail coverage, and make sure their risk management plan still fits their operation.

With tight margins across agriculture, the coverage levels that may have worked in previous years may not always provide the level of protection a producer needs today. Taking time to review coverage before the deadline can help growers make more informed decisions before the next weather event occurs.

Source: Brownfield Ag News, “Crop insurance guidance key for farmers recovering from June storms.”
Listen to the full interview with Kaleb Tillman