NEWARK, N.Y. — AgriLogic Consulting LLC is working with US Apple Association and other industry groups on the development of an apple tree insurance program in addition to the existing fruit insurance program. AgriLogic is very experienced in developing other tree insurance programs as well as a wide range of other risk management tools. This project is being developed in cooperation with the USDA Risk Management Agency and once approved the policy will be available to apple growers in a similar way to other RMA supported crop insurance programs. Initially the program will be offered in New York, Michigan, Washington, Oregon, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Virginia.
The preliminary design for the apple tree insurance program would cover weather-related perils that damage trees, with fire blight coverage available as an option. The high cost of new plantings is a major reason for grower interest in this new risk management tool.
An important part of this project is to have focus group meetings with growers in various parts of the country. These sessions are designed for grower feedback and input on the program. This tree insurance concept will be briefly introduced by Ray Prewett with AgriLogic at the Premier Apple Forum in Syracuse on June 26. However, Ray is also interested in meeting with 6-12 growers for a more detailed discussion and grower feedback on the proposed apple tree insurance program. This focus group will be held on Tuesday, June 27, 8:30 am at CCE Wayne County, 1581 NY-88, Newark, NY 14513. The session is expected to last about an hour and a half but the length will be determined by the extent growers want to discuss the program. We realize some possible focus group participants will still be attending the Premier meeting on June 27, but this meeting is primarily for those who will not be able to attend the Premier meeting.
If you are interested in participating in the focus group meeting or want more information, please contact Ray Prewett directly at 956-458-1616or rprewett@agrilogic.com.
—Cornell Cooperative Extension Wayne County
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