Is Crop Insurance Available for Organic and Specialty Crops in Nebraska?

If you grow organic produce or a specialty crop like heirloom vegetables or edamame in Nebraska, you may have wondered whether standard crop insurance policies will apply to your operation. The good news is that coverage options do exist, and Nebraska farmers working outside conventional commodity crops are not left on their own.

What the USDA Offers for Organic and Specialty Producers

The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) has expanded its programs significantly in recent years. Through the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC), organic producers can typically access the same policies available to conventional growers, with pricing that reflects certified organic market values. Specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables and niche grains, may be eligible for coverage through:

• Whole-farm revenue protection (WFRP) typically covers the revenue of your entire operation under one policy.
• Actual production history (APH) within crop insurance policies can provide coverage specifically tailored for eligible crops.

Additionally, the noninsured crop disaster assistance program (NAP), administered by the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), can help financially protect farms that raise crops not covered by federal crop insurance.

Real-world Scenarios Nebraska Farmers Face

Consider a small organic vegetable operation near Hartington, NE that grows several crops at once. A single hailstorm or drought can hit multiple revenue streams simultaneously. WFRP is often a practical fit here because it accounts for the farm’s overall income rather than crop-by-crop yields. For a producer growing a single specialty grain, an APH policy may align more closely with actual risk exposure.

Coverage details, premium rates and eligibility requirements vary by policy and crop type, so what works for one farm may not be the best fit for another.

Connect With a Local Agent

Contact Anderson & Anderson Insurance to review your options. Our team proudly serves farmers in Hartington, NE and throughout Nebraska, and can help you find coverage that fits your operation.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.