Michigan farmers get 2025 insurance boost

By Andi Anderson

Crop insurance is an essential tool for fruit farmers, helping them manage the risks posed by weather and fluctuating markets. The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) regularly updates its crop insurance programs to meet the changing needs of farmers. For Michigan fruit growers, several key updates have been introduced for the 2025 crop year.

Apples:

For the apple Actual Production History (APH) program, the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) has been added, providing growers with increased protection.

Additionally, Enterprise Units (EU) are now available as a coverage option, allowing farmers to group their apple fields into a single insurance unit. Ambrosia and Evercrisp apple varieties are now included in Variety Group B.

Blueberries:

Blueberry farmers will now have more flexibility with optional units that allow them to insure their fields by type: early season, mid-season, and late season.

ECO has also been added for blueberries in 2025, with Mason and Oceana counties now covered areas under the program.

Cherries:

For sweet and tart cherries, the Actual Revenue History (ARH) program has expanded to include Enterprise Units (EU) and Enterprise Units by organic farming practice (EO), offering greater customization for cherry growers.

Grapes:

In the grape APH program, ECO has been added to increase protection. Additionally, under the Grapevine Insurance Program, grafted vines can now be insured after six months, down from the previous requirement of 12 months.

Micro Farm:

Small fruit farms with approved revenue under $350,000 ($400,000 for carryover insured) may qualify for the Micro Farm program, a subset of the Whole Farm Revenue Program.

Since 2023, this program allows a farm’s worst revenue year to be dropped from calculations and includes adjustments for farm expansions.

Starting in 2025, beginning and veteran farmers can use another person’s tax records when taking over a farm if they have been actively involved in managing or operating it.

These changes reflect ongoing collaboration between the RMA, farmers, and insurance providers to offer more tailored and responsive crop insurance options.

Michigan fruit growers are encouraged to consult their local crop insurance agents to explore these new options for the 2025 crop year.

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