Coalition defends role of farm safety net

WASHINGTON, March 12, 2013 - A coalition of more than 40 commodity groups, lending organizations, and other agricultural stakeholders led by the Crop Insurance and Reinsurance Bureau sent a letter today urging Congress to defend a strong farm safety net.

"Last year's widespread crop losses clearly demonstrate the need for crop insurance protection delivered by the private sector," said CIRB Chairman Greg Mills of ADM Risk Services. "Farmers, their lenders and suppliers, and stakeholders from across the industry agree that the program must remain a viable, affordable tool for managing risk."

The letter maintains that crop insurance is the cornerstone of most farmers' risk management portfolios and is delivered through an effective public-private partnership.

"Crop insurance helps protect farmers and ranchers of all sizes from losses that are beyond their control," CIRB Executive Vice President Michael Torrey said. "Despite record drought, farmers were back in the fields without additional assistance - thanks to crop insurance."

The letter also opposes any changes to crop insurance that would discourage producer participation or undermine private sector delivery.  The groups urge Congress to defend the program during future agriculture policy debates.

For the entire letter, click here.

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