A specialty crop grower pleads for lawmakers to update the crop insurance program in the next Farm Bill

Tariffs are top of mind but farmers are still eager to get a new Farm Bill on the books.

One specialty crop grower recently told lawmakers their crop insurance has not had attention since the 1980s.

“Specialty crops have less support, higher risk, and unfortunately, a weaker risk mitigation system to rely on than our friends with row crops. Right now, our industry relies on an outdated crop insurance program that USDA help set up in the 190s. We need to correct this immediately to help ensure our farm’s survival,” said Ben Eicheverry, a New Mexico chile grower.

Related Stories
With the Farm Bill now in the Senate’s hands, industry groups say the stakes are high—and timely action could be critical for producers navigating a difficult economic environment.
Domestic demand policy may play a larger role if export competition continues to limit price recovery.
Kansas Congressman Derek Schmidt joins us to discuss House passage of the Farm Bill, its potential impact on farm profitability and stability, key policy compromises, and the outlook for Senate consideration.
The farm bill is still moving, but the toughest amendment fights were pushed into today’s session. ASA President Scott Metzger joins us to discuss the risks of tariff actions on soybean exports, concerns over trade policy and production costs, and the importance of Farm Bill updates.
According to a tweet from Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, the full House vote on the Farm Bill will be held until lawmakers return from recess.
The House is moving forward with debate on the Farm Bill after a lengthy session in the House Rules Committee cleared the legislation for floor consideration.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

FarmHER Debra Lockard joined us Friday on the Market Day Report to discuss her upcoming show episode, which premieres on Tuesday, October 1 at 9:00 PM ET, only on RFD-TV!
Meet FarmHER Debra Lockard, a third-generation Tennessee produce grower who splits her time running two farms in West Tennessee and teaching ag classes that promote sustainable farming practices in her Memphis community.
What are some common mistakes that farmers and ranchers make regarding estate planning? Here are a few key ideas to consider from RFD-TV Ag Legal and Tax Expert Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law.
RFD-TV Farm Accounting & Tax expert Roger McEowen discusses crucial legal and tax issues for farmers and ranchers to manage operational risks in this Firm to Farm blog post.
The FarmHER crew catches up with fifth-generation California sweet baby broccoli producer Kate Hitchcock and her team in the middle of the harvest season in the Salinas Valley.