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DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR APPLE, PEACH INSURANCE PROGRAMS
The final date for West Virginia apple and peach growers to obtain crop insurance on next year's crop is November 20, 2005 . Current policy holders also have until November 20 to make any changes to their existing contracts. Price elections for 2006 will be $7.55 per bushel for fresh apples and $11.75 per bushel for fresh peaches.
"USDA has been making a concerted effort to provide more opportunities for farmers in areas outside of the Midwest grain belt," said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass . "I strongly encourage anyone not already involved in these crop insurance programs to consider purchasing this low-cost coverage."
Crop insurance provides coverage against production losses due to damage caused by natural perils and adverse weather conditions such as hail, wind, frost and drought. The amount of coverage is determined from actual yields and protection levels. Growers are encouraged to contact a local crop insurance agent as soon as possible for more detailed information and premium quotes.
For a list of crop insurance agents in your area, contact the local USDA Farm Service Agency office or log on to the following Risk Management Agency web site: http://www3.rma.usda.gov/tools/agents.
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture protects plant,
animal and human health through a variety of scientific, regulatory
and consumer protection programs, as mandated by state law. The
Commissioner of Agriculture is one of six statewide elected officials
in West Virginia. Currently, Commissioner Gus R. Douglass is the
longest-serving agriculture commissioner in the nation. For more
information, visit www.wvagriculture.org.
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