Crop Insurance Participation Surges As Risk Management Needs Grow

Crop insurance remains essential as risks and costs rise.

farm gasoline tanks diesel fuel energy DSCN0035.JPG

FarmHER, Inc.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Farmers expanded their use of crop insurance in 2025, setting new records for coverage as risk and margin pressure continue to build across agriculture. Data from National Crop Insurance Services shows producers are relying more heavily on insurance as a primary risk management tool.

Farmers purchased 2.54 million policies last year, covering a record 561 million acres and more than $159 billion in liability. Producers also invested over $6.25 billion of their own money into coverage, signaling strong confidence in the program.

Participation remains broad nationwide. Kansas and Texas led in total policies sold, while Iowa and Illinois topped the list for total liability coverage. The data reflect both large-scale row-crop production in the Midwest and high-value specialty-crop exposure in other regions.

Coverage now spans all 50 states and a wide range of commodities. As weather volatility increases and margins tighten, crop insurance continues to serve as the backbone of the farm safety net.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Crop insurance remains essential as risks and costs rise.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Related Stories
Once a year, Army crew chiefs and Black Hawk mechanics undergo live aerial gunnery training—loading, firing, and practicing the teamwork they’ll need in real missions.
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) says recent wins in markets like Malaysia and Cambodia help farmers focus on production rather than trade barriers.
Kubota President Alex Woods discusses the “Geared to Give” program, the company’s commitment to those who served, and how the initiative continues to grow and impact veterans.
Today, we honor the courage, dedication, and service of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces by taking a closer look at their commitment and teamwork in action.
Tyson expects another year of beef-segment losses due to tight cattle supplies, even as chicken, pork, and prepared foods strengthen overall margins.
One Iowa man’s story is a powerful reminder of service, sacrifice, and home.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Grain shippers face lower freight values thanks to weak soybean exports and strong rail service, but barge traffic and forward Gulf loadings suggest continued uncertainty as harvest ramps up.
The EPA proposal laid out two options: fully reallocate all exempted volumes to the 2026–2027 standards, or reallocate half.
U.S. aquaculture may gain competitive ground as harmful subsidies are phased out abroad, but producers should monitor shifts in import supply chains and trade enforcement closely.
Producers may need to prepare for margin pressure in livestock feeding, while dairy farmers could benefit from stronger product demand.
Farmers await concrete trade commitments from China. Until then, export prospects for soybeans, corn, and sorghum remain uncertain against strong South American competition.
National Sorghum Producers CEO Tim Lust said farmers face a challenging year with strong supply, murky trade conditions, and uncertain access to their largest market: China.