Risk Management Agency officials are looking at expanding the farm safety net in 2016 when they enhance the whole farm revenue protection program. The program aims to help diversified farmers, as well as those just starting to farm. National Young Farmers Coalition Policy Analyst Eric Hansen says they’re pleased RMA is moving ahead with expansion of this insurance program as it will be helpful for beginning farmers, organic producers and fruit and vegetable growers.

Hansen says one of the major benefits of the whole farm revenue protection program is it allows beginning farmers to only have to show crop history for three years instead of five to get coverage.

Another major benefit is it will allow a farmer to insure all his commodities at once rather than having to insure each commodity separately.