With tighter margins facing agriculture this year, producers are being encouraged to take a close look at their risk management plans as the March 16 crop insurance deadline approaches. Reviewing coverage options and making sure protection aligns with a farm’s cost of production could be especially important heading into the 2026 growing season.
Tony Jesina with Farm Credit Services of America says this year may require producers to take a harder look at their risk management strategies as financial pressure increases across the crop sector.
Jesina says understanding cost of production is one of the first steps when evaluating crop insurance coverage. Producers should consider whether their current plan provides enough protection to cover those expenses if yields or prices fall short.
If coverage does not adequately protect those costs, Jesina says farmers may want to explore additional options that can strengthen their protection levels.
Jesina says once a solid risk management plan is in place, it can also give producers the confidence to take advantage of marketing opportunities that may arise during the growing season.
Selling bushels above the cost of production when markets allow can help reduce pressure later in the year and improve long-term profitability.
Jesina says producers should work closely with their crop insurance agent, financial advisor, or other trusted professionals to review their options ahead of the March 16 crop insurance deadline and continue evaluating risk management decisions throughout the year.
