Deadlines loom for Pa. farmers
HARRISBURG — Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff reminds Pennsylvania farmers of two upcoming crop insurance deadlines — July 16 for acreage reports for 2007 spring crops; and July 31 for 2008 fall forage seeding enrollment.
“This summer’s dry weather, coupled with severe storms, has taken a toll on crops in Pennsylvania,” Wolff said. “Farmers are encouraged to consider purchasing crop insurance to protect their investments from losses. They are also reminded to report any crop damage in a timely manner in order to receive reimbursement.”
The acreage reporting deadline is July 16 for all 2007 insured crops planted in the spring, other than small grains. Participating producers are required to file the reports with both their crop insurance agent and with their county Farm Service Agency.
July 31 is the deadline for enrollment for fall forage seeding for the 2008 crop year.
Farmers whose crops have experienced damage should report it immediately.
The following are the requirements for reporting crop damage:
UAt least 15 days before harvesting begins; or
UWithin 72 hours of discovery; or
UWithin 15 days of harvest completion for the insurance unit; or
UWithin 15 days of the calendar date for the end of the insurance period.
To find a crop insurance agent, visit www.rma.usda.gov. For more information on Pennsylvania’s crop insurance program and other risk management opportunities, call (717) 787-6041 or visit www.agriculture.state.pa.us and click on “Crop Insurance.”