Aerial Corn Soybeans SunsetThe first 2023 Farm Bill Senate Ag Committee hearing took place last week. Crop insurance remained a key topic as Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Ranking Member John Boozman (R-Ark.) talked with farmers in Michigan about top farm policies key to running their operation. As more climate-related uncertainties and market volatility furrow the brows of most U.S. ag producers, the discussion centered around why crop insurance helps family farmers manage risk.

Juliette King McAvoy, who grows specialty crops in Northern Michigan, says crop insurance gives her the certainty and confidence to continue her family’s operation. “Crop insurance absolutely helps us manage risk,” McAvoy said. “We’ve had increased frequency of crop loss and I cannot imagine trying to survive without it. There are not many business models that can withstand the kind of volatility that we are experiencing.”

Read more on the important role of crop insurance and upcoming discussions for the 2023 Farm Bill here.