NSP Clarifies Failed Crop Clause

The National Sorghum Producers says growers who experienced a damaging freeze in recent weeks in wheat can still plant a second uninsured crop and remain eligible for crop insurance payments of the first crop. NSP says some producers have been told that planting a second crop behind wheat may affect their eligibility for the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Program if their wheat had already headed out before a freeze. However, according to NSP, a producer planting a second crop behind failed wheat, regardless of the growth stage of the wheat, will be considered a “ghost crop” and will be eligible for SURE.

But, now the fine print. Point one. If the producer listed sorghum on their insurance policy – remember no premium is due unless you actually insure acreage. And point two. If the producer had purchased NAP on the second crops. FSA has confirmed that a “liberal equitable relief policy” will be in effect for 2009 given the late freeze on wheat.

Producers who did not indicate on their insurance forms that they might plant another crop besides wheat will be at the mercy of this “liberal equitable relief policy.” It is still unclear whether producers will be eligible for SURE if they plant a second crop and did not indicate the intent to do so. If producers have sorghum – or another crop – listed on their policy, then they are safe under SURE and should have no problems.