As historical flooding hits the Midwest, NAWG extends its support and consideration to those farmers and ranchers who are facing the devastating aftermath. Additionally, NAWG issued a statement highlighting the importance of crop insurance and urging Congress and the Administration to continue to strengthen the program.
“Our hearts go out to those farmers and ranchers across the Midwest who have been hit with unprecedented flooding,” says Ben Scholz, NAWG President and Lavon, TX, wheat farmer. “Disasters like this one not only mean damage to the crop but loss of buildings, equipment, and infrastructure.”
For many farmers and ranchers, the farm bill’s crop insurance program, including prevented planting coverage, serves as an important risk management tool protect against natural disasters like this.
“Whether a disaster looms over the horizon or hits without warning, crop insurance provides growers with a much-needed safety net to mitigate the effects,” continued Scholz. “Congress and the Administration should focus on how to strengthen and improve crop insurance, not weaken a program that many American farmers and ranchers rely on.”
According to Nebraska Farm Bureau’s initial estimates, the state has encountered $400 million in grain/crop losses and $500 million in livestock. 1 in 4 jobs for the state of Nebraska depend on agriculture as it is its main economic driver.
The Nebraska Farm Bureau has established a relief fund to help when natural disasters hit. If interested in donating, click here.
