Crop Insurance Professionals Association New Member Announcements

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Joseph Beranek - World Insurance

Jill Whitley — Fri, 29 May 2026 21:13:50 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Joseph Beranek - World Insurance

Miller, SD

joeberanek@worldinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member Jeffrey Craven - Alliance Ag/Oakbridge Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 11 May 2026 13:24:39 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Jeffrey Craven - Alliance Ag/Oakbridge Insurance

Perry, GA

jcraven@oakbridgeinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Cathy Bartels - AgWest Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:36:06 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Cathy Bartels - AgWest Farm Credit

Redmond, OR

cathy.bartels@agwestfc.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Member - Alma Cortez - CropGuard Group

Jill Whitley — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:55:06 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Alma Cortez - CropGuard Group

Raymondville, TX

acortez@cropguardgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member - Blake McGarvey - Williamson Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:19:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Blake McGarvey - Williamson Insurance Agency

Paulding, OH

blake@cropcoverage.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member - Garrett Williamson - Williamson Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:17:41 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Garrett Williamson - Williamson Insurance Agency

Payne, OH

garrett@cropcoverage.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member - Katie Elgin - Beland Ag Risk Services

Jill Whitley — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:43:06 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Katie Elgin - Beland Ag Risk Services

Rudd, IA

katie@agriskservices.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Adam Stanberry - Central Crop Insurance LLC

Jill Whitley — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:03:28 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Adam Stanberry - Central Crop Insurance LLC

Kingdom City, MO

adam@centralcrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Bateman Greenlee - Greenlee Agency LLC

Jill Whitley — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:01:42 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Bateman Greenlee - Greenlee Agency LLC

Inverness, MS

batemanbg@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Brian Gill - Legacy Crop Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 15:09:07 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Brian Gill - Legacy Crop Insurance Services

Exeter, CA

bgill@legacycropins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Drew Jensen - Tredas

Jill Whitley — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 21:20:52 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Drew Jensen - Tredas

Lincoln, NE

drew@gotredas.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Mason Burch - B&S Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 19:01:46 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Mason Burch - B&S Insurance Agency

Palmyra, MO

mburch@bandsins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Bailey Imthurn - P&B Crop Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:07:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Bailey Imthurn - P&B Crop Insurance Agency

Wichita, KS

bpalecki@pbcropinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Will Babler - Pinion Commodity Solutions

Jill Whitley — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 04:27:49 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member:

Will Babler - Pinion Commodity Solutions

Galena, IL

will.babler@pinionglobal.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Michael Johnson - Leading Edge Crop Solutions, LLC

Jill Whitley — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:50:23 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Michael Johnson - Leading Edge Crop Solutions, LLC

Oskaloosa, IA

mike@leadingedgecrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Cole Garner - Garner Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 17:42:47 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Cole Garner - Garner Insurance Agency

Levelland, TX

garnerinsurance@yahoo.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Tanner Smith - Assiter Ag Risk

Jill Whitley — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 17:22:44 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Tanner Smith - Assiter Ag Risk

Floydada, TX

tanner@assiter.biz

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Joshlin Yoder - Yoder Crop Insurance, LLC

Jill Whitley — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:38:38 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Joshlin Yoder - Yoder Crop Insurance, LLC

Leonard, MO

joshlin@yodercropinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jason Eden - Eden Agency, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 14:58:19 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Jason Eden - Eden Agency, Inc.

Ceresco, NE

jason@edencrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Erick Carlson - Carlson Family Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 21:53:16 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Erick Carlson - Carlson Family Insurance Agency

Wahpeton, ND

erick@cfiagency.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Kyle Heater - Corner Post Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 21:29:50 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Kyle Heater - Corner Post Crop Insurance

Independence, KS

kyleheater@cornerpostcrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Lindsey Hall - ICAP Crop Insurance LLC

Jill Whitley — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 21:08:16 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Lindsey Hall - ICAP Crop Insurance LLC

Hillsboro, OH

lindsey@premiumag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Shelly Pfisterer - Agri-Risk Solutions

Jill Whitley — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 20:46:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Shelly Pfisterer - Agri-Risk Solutions

Rapid City, SD

agririsk1@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Jace Householder - AgWest Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 21:08:56 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Jace Householder - AgWest Farm Credit

Tulare, CA

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Jason Buchanan - AgWest Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 21:29:34 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Jason Buchanan - AgWest Farm Credit

Pasco, WA

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Zack Wolf - AgWest Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:25:04 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Zack Wolf - AgWest Farm Credit

Spokane, WA

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member - Holt Bivens - Texas Ag Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 20:37:24 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Holt Bivens - Texas Ag Insurance Agency

Lubbock, TX

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Walker Brandt - Arbol

Jill Whitley — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:53:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member:

Walker Brandt - Arbol

New York, NY

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member - Pecos Martin - Green Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 21:56:55 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Pecos Martin - Green Crop Insurance Agency

Plainview, TX

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member - Devin McQueen - Green Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 21:53:51 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Devin McQueen - Green Crop Insurance Agency

Plainview, TX

devin.mcqueen94@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Chad Hall - Spartan Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 17:52:44 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Chad Hall - Spartan Insurance Agency

Defiance, OH

chall@spartancropcom

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate-Agent Member Eric Milton - Strategic Farm Marketing/Milligan Ins.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 21:01:58 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member:

Eric Milton - Milligan Ins. Agency

Milligan, NE

emilton@milliganagency.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Member - Lucas Strom - Momentum Ag

Jill Whitley — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 00:41:23 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Lucas Strom - Momentum Ag

Elgin, IL

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Shaun Wied - Capital Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 22:55:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Shaun Wied - Capital Farm Credit

Lubbock, TX

shaun.wied@capitalfarmcredit.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Affiliate Agent - Aaron Kurokawa - Wolf Point Insurance Agency, LLP

Jill Whitley — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 23:02:15 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Aaron Kurokawa - Wolf Point Insurance Agency, LLC

Wolf Point, MT

aaron@wolfpointins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Kendra Kearney - Flatlands Insurance Group

Jill Whitley — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 03:18:11 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate-Affiliate Agent member:

Kendra Kearney - Flatlands Insurance Group

Pfafftown, NC

kendra@flatlandsgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Darrell Tennie - Agribusiness Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 02:53:16 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Darrell Tennie - Agribusiness Crop Insurance

Knightdale, NC

tennied@thetenniegroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Briss Vankranenburg - Sunrise Ag Insurance

Jill Whitley — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 23:29:14 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Briss Vankranenburg - Sunrise Ag Insurance

Amarillo, TX

briss@sunriseaginsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Lori Denney - Denney Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 22:42:33 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Lori Denney - Denney Insurance Services

Yuba City, CA

lori@denneyinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Dakota Moss - Livestock Risk Services, LLC

Jill Whitley — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 03:28:14 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member:

Dakota Moss - Livestock Risk Services, LLC

Oklahoma City, OK

dmoss@livestockriskservices.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Clayton Waller- Savannah Valley Ag Solutions

Jill Whitley — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 22:42:14 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Clayton Waller - Savannah Valley Ag Solutions

Clyo, Georgia

claytonwaller1@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate-Agent Member - Chock Hefner - Strategic Farm Solutions

Jill Whitley — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 17:40:03 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Chock Hefner - Strategic Farm Solutions

Moundridge, KS

chock@strategicfarms.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jennifer Otteson - Countryside Insurance Agency, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 16:55:59 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Jennifer Otteson - Countryside Insurance Agency, Inc.

Buxton, ND

jennifer@countrysidecropinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Brian Long - UnCommon Farms

Jill Whitley — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:48:05 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member:

Brian Long - UnCommon Farms

Brighton, IL

blong@uncommonfarms.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Caitlin Hoots - Malpert Insurance

Jill Whitley — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:30:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Caitlin Hoots - Malpert Insurance

Redfield, SD

cmhoots@malpertinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Nicholle Renshaw - Federal Crop Agency

Jill Whitley — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 19:28:03 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Nichole Renshaw - Federal Crop Agency

Omaha, NE

nicholle@federalcropagency.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Taylor Denney - Denney Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:45:26 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Taylor Denney - Denney Insurance Services

Yuba City, CA

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Michael Lee - Flatlands Insurance Group

Jill Whitley — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 23:37:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member:

Michael Lee - Flatlands Insurance Group

Washington, NC

Michael@flatlandsgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Stacy Langley - Stanley Insurance Group

Jill Whitley — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 22:52:23 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Stacy Langley - Stanley Insurance Group

Augusta, AR

stacy.langley@pruittagency.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Agent Member - Nicole Shrack - Harris Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 15:44:53 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Nicole Shrack - Harris Crop Insurance

Abilene, KS

nicole.harriscropins@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Dakota Hoben - HarvestIQ

Jill Whitley — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 18:17:38 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member:

Dakota Hoben - HarvestIQ

Ames, IA

dakota@harvestiq.com

harvestiq.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Garth Wruck - Farmers Edge

Jill Whitley — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 21:33:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member:

Garth Wruck - Farmers Edge Inc.

Grimes, IA

garth.wruck@farmersedge.ca

https://farmersedge.ca

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Ian Cole - Cole Agency

Jill Whitley — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 17:03:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Ian Cole - Cole Agency

Batesville, MS

ian@coleagencyropins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Sharon Rolstad - Groton Ag Partners

Jill Whitley — Wed, 15 May 2024 21:58:02 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Sharon Rolstad - Groton Ag Partners

New Effington, SD

sharon@grotonag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Stacey Martin - River Valley Group

Jill Whitley — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 23:27:31 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Stacey Martin - River Valley Group, Inc.

Oakboro, NC

stacey@rivervalleygroup.org

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Callum Woolley - Pine Creek Group

Jill Whitley — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 22:53:28 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member:

Callum Woolley - Pine Creek Group

New York, NY

callum@pinecreekag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Rick Lear - Carden & Associates

Jill Whitley — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 20:49:39 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Rick Lear - Carden & Associates

Winter Haven, FL

rlear@cardeninsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Allen Honek - Heritage Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 14:24:28 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Allen Honek - Heritage Insurance Services, Inc.

Grand Forks, ND

ahonek@heritageinsservices.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - David Gibson - Texas Cord Produers

Jill Whitley — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 21:20:42 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member:

David Gibson - Texas Corn Producers

Lubbock, TX

dgibson@texascorn.org

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Peter Kisselburgh - Arthur Carroll Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 23:30:42 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Peter Kisselburgh - Arthur Carroll Insurance Agency

Thomaston, CT

peter@arthurcarrollcrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Jeremy Forrett - Farm Credit East/Crop Growers

Jill Whitley — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:38:56 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member:

Jeremy Forrett - Farm Credit East/Crop Growers

Homer, NY

jeremy.forrett@farmcrediteast.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Affiliate Agent Member - Lyn Goldston - Capital Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 17:47:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate Affiliate Agent member:

Lyn Goldston - Capital Farm Credit

Ft. Worth, TX

lyn.goldston@capitalfarmcredit.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Nathan Kinnaman - Alabama Farm Credit/Farm Shield Ins.

Jill Whitley — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 22:16:28 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member:

Nathan Kinnaman - Alabama Farm Credit/Farm Shield Crop Ins.

New Market, AL

nathan.kinnaman@farmshieldinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - TJ O'Daniel - Farm Credit Mid-America

Jill Whitley — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 22:29:30 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member:

TJ O'Daniel - Farm Credit Mid-America

Louisville, KY

tj.odaniel@fcma.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jeffrey Craven Jr. - CIMXag Insurnace, LLC

Jill Whitley — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 01:38:56 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member:

Jeffrey Craven Jr. - CIMXag Insurance, LLC

Baxley, GA

Jeffreyjr@cimxag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Michael Woods - Cole Agency

Jill Whitley — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 01:54:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member:

Michael Woods - Cole Agency

Grenada, MS

montgomeryso18@yahoo.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Gary Heilig - Crop West Insurance.com

Jill Whitley — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:46:44 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member:

Gary Heilig - Crop West Insurance

Spokane Valley, WA

gary@cropwestinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Greg Lance - Capital Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:44:21 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member to the association.

Greg Lance - Capital Farm Credit

Lubbock TX

greg.lance@capitalfarmcredit.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Travis Glaser - ARM Services LLC

Jill Whitley — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:07:50 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Travis Glaser - ARM Services LLC

Barron, WI

travis.glaser@agriskman.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - JR Ryberg - Ihry Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 15:12:50 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

JR Ryberg - Ihry Insurance

Watford City, ND

jr@ihryins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Bethany Rentz - Ihry Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 15:11:18 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Bethany Rentz - Ihry Insurance

Grand Forks, ND

rentzb@ihryins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Michael Kozojed - Ihry Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 15:09:30 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Michael Kozojed - Ihry Insurance

Hillsboro, ND

mike@ihryins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Stacy Niemann - Stacy Niemann Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 21:32:30 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Stacy Niemann - Stacy Niemann Insurance Agency

Woodsboro, TX

sniemanninsurance@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Steven Hassebroek - Central States Agency

Jill Whitley — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 19:50:49 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Steven Hassebroek - Central States Insurance Agency

Buffalo Center, IA

steve@centralstatesagency.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Cheri Lange - SC Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 20:09:44 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Cheri Lange - SC Crop Insurance

Red Bud, IL

cheri@sccropinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Joshua Sojda - Weller Insurance

Jill Whitley — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 15:31:41 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Joshua Sojda - Weller Insurance

Glen Allen, VA

josh@wellerins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Colleen Kisselburgh - Arthur Carroll Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 02:59:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Colleen Kisselburgh - Arthur Carroll Insurance Agency

Thomaston, CT

ckisselburgh01@snet.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Justin Smith - Smith Agricultural Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 02:24:05 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Justin Smith - Smith Agricultural Insurance Services, LLC

Fitzgerald, GA

smith.ag.ins@hotmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jacob Little - Crop & Range Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 03:50:19 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Jacob Little - Crop & Range Insurance Services

Hillsboro, TX

jml4570@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Andrew Lewis - Certus Ag Group

Jill Whitley — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 02:37:12 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Andrew Lewis - Certus Ag Group

Columbus, MS

certusaggroup@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Crystal Mulcahy - American Federal Insurance Services, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 02:18:43 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member to the association.

Crystal Mulcahy - American Federal Insurance Services, Inc.

Fargo, ND

cmulcahy@americanfederal.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Shane Larck - Ihry Insurance Agency Inc.

Jill Whitley — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:31:14 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Shane Larck - Ihry Insurance Agency Inc.

Hope, ND

shane@ihryins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Pam Vipond - ProAg Services, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:29:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Pam Vipond - ProAg Services, Inc.

Mahnomen, MN

pam@proagservice.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jared Curtis - Agri-Plan Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Sat, 13 Jan 2024 01:01:52 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association.

Jared Curtis - Agri-Plan Crop Insurance

Clovis, NM

jared@agriplanins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Lindsey Hall - ICAP Insurance

Jill Whitley — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:51:34 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Lindsey Hall - ICAP Insurance

Hillsboro, OH

lindsey@premiumag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Alyssa Houtby - North American Blueberry Council

Jill Whitley — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 15:46:33 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association.

Alyssa Houtby - North American Blueberry Council

Folsom, CA

ahoutby@nabcblues.org

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Ben Tillman - Agriliance Insurance Group

Jill Whitley — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 21:53:53 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Ben Tillman - Agriliance Insurance Group

Darlington, SC

ben@agriliance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Callie Hargrove - Hargrove Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 18:03:54 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Callie Hargrove - Hargrove Crop Insurance

Snyder, TX

callie@hargroveinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Lacy Lincoln - CropGuard Group

Jill Whitley — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:23:38 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Lacy Lincoln - CropGuard Group

Bay City, TX

llincoln@cropguardgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - James Brown - CropGuard.ai

Jill Whitley — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 22:59:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association.

James Brown - CropGuard.ai

Winter, CA

james@cropguard.ai

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Bryce Harrison - Fowler Agency

Jill Whitley — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 20:56:39 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Bryce Harrison - Fowler Agency

Elk City, OK

bryce@proudtofarm.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Bobby Avina - FARM Inc.

Jill Whitley — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 22:47:09 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Roberto (Bobby) Avina - FARM Inc.

bobbyavina10@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Affiliate Agent Member - John Files - Arthur J Gallagher Risk Mgt Serv

Jill Whitley — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 22:27:30 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate Affiliate Agent member to the association.

John Files - Arthur J. Gallager Risk Mgt Serv/Kirksey Agency

john_files@ajg.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Affiliate Agent Member - Jay Calhoun - Gallagher/Kirksey Agency

Jill Whitley — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 22:25:36 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Jay Calhoun - Gallagher/Kirksey Agency

jay_calhoun@ajg.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Jon King - Galagher Re

Jill Whitley — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 22:00:12 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association.

Jon King - Gallagher RE

Chicago, IL

jon_king@GallagerRE.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Jason Espenson - Prairie Country Crop Ins/Minn-Iowa

Jill Whitley — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 22:31:06 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Jason Espenson - Prairie Country Crop Insurance/Minn-Iowa Crop Ins

Jackson, MN

jason@pccropins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Shannon Antonini - NorCoast Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 08 May 2023 15:51:01 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Shannon Antonini - NorCoast Crop Insurance

Petaluma, CA

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Emily Carvajal - NorCoast Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 08 May 2023 15:49:20 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Emily Carvajal - NorCoast Crop Insurance

Petaluma, CA

emily@norcoastcrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Bill Schmitz - Heritage Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Tue, 02 May 2023 18:03:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Bill Schmitz - Heritage Insurance Services

Oakes, ND

BSchmitz@heritageinsservices.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Mark Simon - Heritage Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Mon, 01 May 2023 18:01:35 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Mark Simon - Heritage Insurance Services

Oxbow, ND

msimon@heritageinsservices.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Affiliate Agent Member - Shawn Peterson - Redd Summit Advisors/PCF Ins

Jill Whitley — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 00:43:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Shawn Peterson - Redd Summit Advisors/PCF Insurance

Springville, UT

shawn@reddsummit.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Chris Turnage - Storm Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 23:04:14 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Chris Turnage - Storm Insurance

Masyfield, KY

cturnage@storm-ins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Jordan Stoermer - Storm Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 23:02:53 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Jordan Stoermer - Storm Insurance

Owensboro, KY

JordanStoermer@storm-ins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Jason Stoermer - Storm Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 23:01:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Jason Stoermer - Storm Insurance

Bowling Green, TN

jstoermer@storm-ins.commail

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Wes Moss - Storm Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 22:59:18 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Wes Moss - Storm Insurance

Adams, TN

wmoss@storm-ins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Joe Jennings - Daitaas LLC

Jill Whitley — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 14:32:48 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association.

Joe Jennings - Daitaas LLC

Memphis, TN

joe@daitaas.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Affiliate Agent Member - Beau Reynolds - AgWest Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 16:51:59 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Beau Reynolds - AgWest Farm Credit

Pendleton, OR

beau.reynolds@agwestfc.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Affiliate Agent Member - Angela Stanley - AgWest Farm Credit

Jill Whitley — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 17:56:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Angela Stanley - AgWest Farm Credit

Glasgow, MT

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Becky Offutt - Texas Ag Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 19:50:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Becky Offutt - Texas Ag Insurance Agency

Haskell, TX

becky@tex-ag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Monty Edwards - United Country - M. Edwards Realty & Land

Jill Whitley — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 15:24:56 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association.

Monty Edwards - United Country - M. Edwards Realty & Land

Sudan, TX

monty@medwardsland.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Travis Laine - AgencyRoot, LLC

Jill Whitley — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 17:34:08 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association.

Travis Laine - AgencyRoot, LLC

Dallas, TX

travis@agencyroot.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Trey Burgan - Ag360 Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 20:41:15 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Trey Burgan - Ag360 Insurance

St. John, KS

trey@ag360insurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Travis Stewart - AXA Climate

Jill Whitley — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 00:06:56 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association.

Travis Stewart - AXA Climate

Mankato, MN

travis.stewart@axaclimate.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Tony Wedel - Ag360

Jill Whitley — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 15:47:53 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Tony Wedel - Ag360 Insurance

Canton, KS

tony@ag360insurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Jay McEntire - ARVA Intelligence

Jill Whitley — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 14:14:41 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jay McEntire - ARVA Intelligence

Houston, TX

j.mcentire@arvaintelligence.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Dylan Reetz - EDGE Crop Ins/Ag360

Jill Whitley — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 15:34:21 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Dylan Reetz - EDGE Crop Insurance/Ag360

Buckley, IL

dylan.reetz@edge-ag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Ally Cook - Fowler Agency

Jill Whitley — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 20:40:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Ally Cook - Kathy Fowler Agency

Altus, OK

ally@proudtofarm.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Amy Salzsieder Ryan - Martinson Ag Risk Management

Jill Whitley — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 15:08:26 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Amy Salzsieder Ryan - Martinson Ag Risk Management

Fargo, ND

amy@martinsonag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Derel Wicklund - Martinson Ag Risk Management

Jill Whitley — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 15:06:52 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Derel Wicklund - Martinson Ag Risk Management

Fargo, ND

derel@martinsonag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Stan Wright - Fowler Agency

Jill Whitley — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 17:20:56 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association.

Stan Wright - Fowler Agency

Hollis, OK

swright.stan@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Allied Member - American Farm Bureau Insurance Services, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 16:56:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Allied member to the association. Please help us make them feel welcome.

American Farm Bureau Insurance Services, Inc.

Fargo, ND

www.farmbureausellscropinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Patrick Pelzel - Pelzel Crop Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 16:54:21 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Patrick Pelzel - Pelzel Crop Insurance Agency

Garden City, TX

p_pelzel@yahoo.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Katie Voinorovich - Strategic Farm Marketing

Jill Whitley — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 17:27:26 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Katie Voinorovich - Strategic Farm Marketing

Champaign, IL

katie@sfarmmarketing.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Austin Tallman - Koepke Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 15:47:15 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Austin Tallman - Koepke Insurance

Oak Harbor, OH

austin@protectmycrops.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Chris Tank - Ag Risk Crop Insurance LLC

Jill Whitley — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 15:56:06 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Chris Tank - Ag Risk Crop Insurance LLC

Iowa City, IA

chris@agrisk.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Kate Wood - Fowler Agency

Jill Whitley — Tue, 10 May 2022 02:47:19 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Kate Wood - Fowler Agency

Turkey, TX

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Alison Stoller - Williamson Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 23:32:42 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Alison Stoller - Williamson Insurance Agency

Paulding, OH

alison@cropcoverage.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Troy Ross - Williamson Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 23:30:59 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Troy Ross - Williamson Insurance Agency

Van Wert, OH

troy@cropcoverage.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Wheeler Hunnicutt - South Georgia Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 03:14:57 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Wheeler Hunnicutt - South Georgia Crop Insurance

Moultrie, GA

wheeler@sogacrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Brad Harrison - Kathy Fowler Agency

Jill Whitley — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 21:39:24 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Brad Harrison - Kathy Fowler Agency

Elk City, OK

brad@proudtofarm.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Michael North - Ever.Ag

Jill Whitley — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 19:41:30 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Michael North - Ever.Ag

Platteville, WI

man@ever.ag

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Paul Korenek - CropGuard Group

Jill Whitley — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 19:00:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Paul Korenek - CropGuard Group, LLC

Elmaton, TX

pkorenek@cropguardgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Ben Mills - Carden & Associates

Jill Whitley — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 14:34:52 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Ben Mills - Carden & Associations

Winter Haven, FL

bmills@cardeninsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Jake Rinehart - Carden & Associates

Jill Whitley — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 14:33:15 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jake Rinehart - Carden & Associations

Lubbock, TX

jrinehart@cardeninsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Blaine Stucky - Ag360 Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:05:58 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Blaine Stucky - Ag360 Insurance

Moundridge, KS

blaine@ag360insurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Bateman Greenlee - Cole Agency

Jill Whitley — Tue, 08 Mar 2022 19:47:23 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Bateman Greenlee - Cole Agency LLC

Inverness, MS

batemanbg@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Affiliate Agent Member - Ben Mahlich - Greenstone FCS

Jill Whitley — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 16:18:18 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Ben Mahlich - Greenstone FCS

East Lansing, MI

ben.mahlich@greenstonefcs.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Marin Bozic - Bozic LLC

Jill Whitley — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 15:17:22 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Marin Bozic - Bozic LLC

Plymouth, MM

marin@bozic.io

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Randy Martinson - Martinson Ag Risk Management

Jill Whitley — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 17:17:50 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Randy Martinson - Martinson Ag Risk Management

Fargo, ND

randy@martinsonag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Van Alphin - Alphin Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 20:00:46 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Van Alphin - Alphin Insurance Agency, Inc.

Mount Olive, NC

van@alphininsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Jeffrey Oswalt - East Central Ag, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 15:33:55 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jeffrey Oswalt - East Central Ag, Inc.

Ridgeville, IN

jeff.w.oswalt@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Tom Legner - Silveus Insurance Group

Jill Whitley — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 19:05:09 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Tom Legner - Silveus Insurance Group

Dwight, IL

tom.legner@cropins.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Danylle Harman - East Central Ag, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 18:57:26 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Danylle Harman - East Central Ag, Inc.

Winchester, IN

d.harman.eca@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Nathan Ehrhardt - Agsurance LLC

Jill Whitley — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 18:55:48 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Nathan Ehrhardt - Agsurance LLC

El Paso, IL

nate.ehrhardt@agsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Joey Brown - Joe Brown Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 18:52:58 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Joey Brown - Joe Brown Insurance

Lubbock, TX

joey@joebrowninsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Trevor Craig - West TX Ag Crop Ins.

Jill Whitley — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 19:14:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Trevor Craig - West TX Ag Crop Ins.

White Deer, TX

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jan Vetter - Jan Vetter Crop Ins.

Jill Whitley — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 19:03:21 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Jan Vetter - Jan Vetter Crop Ins.

West Fargo, ND

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jen Livsey - EastCo Group

Jill Whitley — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 18:59:01 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Jen Livsey - EastCo Group

Lakewood, CO

jen@eastgogroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Brandon Reeves - Virginia Cattlemen's Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 19:10:25 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Brandon Reeves - Virginia Cattlemen's Insurance

Daleville, VA

breeves@vacattlemen.org

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Megan Evans - Southwest Ag Insurance LLC

Jill Whitley — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 19:08:34 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Megan Evans - Southwest Ag Insurance LLC

Copeland, KS

megan@southwestagins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Rhett Green - Green Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 19:00:25 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Rhett Green - Green Crop Insurance

Farwell, TX

rhettgreen@hotmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Bret Wathen - Wathen Financial

Jill Whitley — Sat, 15 Jan 2022 19:12:10 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Bret Wathen - Wathen Financial

North Salem, IN

bretw@watheninsurance.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Ricki Sinner - Auburn Agency

Jill Whitley — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 15:46:58 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Ricki Sinner - Auburn Agency

Brownville, NE

ricki@aacrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Kevin Corban - Delta Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 15:32:06 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Kevin Corban - Delta Crop Insurance LLC

Rolling Fork, MS

kevin@deltacropins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - H. Hartwell Huddleston III - Delta Crop Insurance LLCInc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 16:23:52 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

H. Hartwell Huddleston III - Delta Crop Insurance LLC

Greenville, MS

hartwell@deltacropins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Natalie Barrett - Barrett Ag Services, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 16:03:34 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Natalie Barrett - Barrett Ag Services Inc.

Cleveland, MS

natalie@barrettag.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jimmy Barrett - Barrett Ag Services, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 15:42:04 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jimmy Barrett - Barrett Ag Services, Inc.

Cleveland, MS

jimmy@barrettag.net

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Joe Lopp - DTN

Jill Whitley — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 15:43:53 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make jim feel welcome.

Joe Lopp - DTN

Elkhorn, NE

joe.lopp@dtn.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Tom Gowdy - Alliance Ag Risk Management

Jill Whitley — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 18:42:47 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Tom Gowdy - Alliance Ag Risk Management

Starkville, MS

tom@cropshelter.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Pat Gauer - Groton Ag Partners

Jill Whitley — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 23:12:49 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Pat Gauer - Groton Ag Partners Inc.

Aberdeen, SD

pat@grotonag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Kallie Schuckman

Jill Whitley — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 21:42:38 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Kallie Schuckman - Williamson Insurance Agency

Washington, IN

kallie@cropcoverage.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Amy Hargrove - Hargrove Insuramce-Snyder

Jill Whitley — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 16:07:08 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Amy Hargrove - Hargrove Crop Insurance-Snyder

Snyder, TX

amy@hargroveinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Michele Andersen - Farmers National Company

Jill Whitley — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 18:07:22 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Michele Andersen - Farmers National Company

Omaha, NE

mandersen@farmersnational.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Tim Aldersen - FARMPlus Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 18:18:34 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Tim Alderson - FarmPLUS Insurance Services

Blairs, VA

tim@farmplus.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Kim Webb

Jill Whitley — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 17:01:44 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Kim Webb

Justin, TX

kimwebb@me.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Chad Weesner - Chad Weesner Insurance

Jill Whitley — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 16:57:14 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Chad Weesner - Chad Weesner Insurance

Vienna, GA

weesner93@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Tim McMillen - FARM Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 16:55:41 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Tim McMillen - FARM Inc.

Dalhart, TX

tim@hartmotorsinc.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Danielle McMillen - FARM Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 16:44:01 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Danielle McMillen - FARM Inc.

Dalhart, TX

danimcmi@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Jay Lee - FARM Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 16:41:54 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jay Lee - FARM Inc.

Madrid, NE

jay.l.lee@hotmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Tucker Knight - FARM Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 16:39:11 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Tucker Knight - FARM Inc.

Springville, AZ

tuckerknight7241@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Brad Pitts - It's The Pitts Inc.

Jill Whitley — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 16:35:35 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Brad Pitts - It's The Pitts Inc.

Lubbock, TX

brad@itpcropinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Dotty Parker - Kaydan Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 16:33:41 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Dotty Parker - Kaydan Insurance Agency

Hendersonville, NC

kaydanins@yahoo.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Tom Wise - Vine Vest LLC

Jill Whitley — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 16:31:44 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Tom Wise - Vine Vest LLC

Sparta, WI

tomvinevest@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Douglas Carothers - Personal Ag Management Ins Svcs LLC

Jill Whitley — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 16:28:32 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Douglas Carothers - Personal Ag Management Ins Svcs LLC

Bakersfield, CA

douglas@paminsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Aaron Hill - Higgins Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 16:25:48 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Aaron Hill - Higgins Insurance

Benton, KY

ahill@higgins-ins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Bret Keeler - Jackson Crop Ins.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 16:17:34 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Bret Keeler - Jackson Crop Insurance

Assaria, KS

bret@jacksoncrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Dwayne Vogler - Town & Country Ins.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 15:14:03 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Dwayne Vogler - Town & Country Agribusiness

Vega, TX

Dwayne@myfarmagent.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Kenzy Middleton - Fowler Agency

Jill Whitley — Mon, 18 May 2020 14:19:39 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Kenzy Middleton - Fowler Agency

Memphis, TX

kenzy@proudtofarm.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Ashley Hansen - Auburn Agency

Jill Whitley — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:50:25 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Ashley Hansen - Auburn Agency Crop Insurance

Auburn, NE

ahansen@aacrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Liz Brueggemann - Auburn Agency

Jill Whitley — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:48:14 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Liz Brueggemann - Auburn Agency Crop Insurance

Auburn, NE

liz@aacrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - John Williams - Ag Service Associates

Jill Whitley — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 15:44:59 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

John Williams - Ag Service Associates

Holdrege, NE

jwilliams@asacrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Bill Eining - Marvin Kelley Insurance Inc

Jill Whitley — Wed, 22 Jan 2020 17:45:40 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Bill Eining - Marvin Kelley Insurance Inc.

Huron, SD

mki@hur.midco.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Jon Streete - Farmers Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 16:04:41 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jon Streete - Farmers Crop Insurance

Natchitoches, LA

jon.streete@farmerscropinsurance.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Thomas Parks - Pieper & Parks Insurance Agency LLC

Jill Whitley — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 16:02:38 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Thomas Parks - Pieper & Parks Insurance Agency LLC

Roscoe, TX

taparks12@yahoo.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Wyatt Schroder - FedCrop Insurance Services

Jill Whitley — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 16:00:59 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Wyatt Schroder - FedCrop Insurance Services

Lexington, KY

wyatt@fedcrop.com

President Trump Signs Historic Trade Deal with China

Jill Whitley — Wed, 15 Jan 2020 22:18:00 GMT

American agriculture witnessed a momentous occasion today when President Donald Trump and Chinese Vice Premier Lui He signed a Phase I trade agreement with China. The deal addresses structural barriers to trade and supports a large expansion of U.S. food, agriculture, and seafood product exports.

The deal boasts Chinese purchases of at least $40 billion of U.S. food, agricultural, and seafood products annually for a total of $80 billion over the next two years. Also, an agriculture fact sheet released by the White House (found here) claims China will strive to import an additional $5 billion per year over the next two years.

We will include a comprehensive overview of the deal in Friday’s Weekly Newsletter. In the meantime, view the press conference here and access the agriculture fact sheet here.

Today we also had a good indication from USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue that the third tranche of Market Facilitation Program 2.0 payments will be made. AgriPulse reports Secretary Perdue said he is not expecting another round of Market Facilitation Program payments (MFP 3.0), “but obviously, we’ve got a third tranche of 2019 payments expecting to go out.”

On a final positive note, the Senate is slated to pass the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement tomorrow. All seven committees with jurisdiction over the bill have approved it in an expedited manner with overwhelming bipartisan support.

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member - Stacey Martin - Midland Agency Insurance

Jill Whitley — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 21:17:50 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Stacey Martin - Midland Agency Insurance

Oakboro, NC

stacey@midlandagency.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Matthew Railey - Carden & Associates

Jill Whitley — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 17:10:17 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Matthew Railey - Carden & Associates

Winter Haven, FL

mrailey@cardeninsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full-Affiliate Agent Member - Corrie Cook - Kathy Fowler Agency

Jill Whitley — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 20:15:11 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Corrie Cook - Kathy Fowler Agency

Memphis, TX

corrie@proudtofarm.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - James Oestmann - Auburn Agency, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 16:28:12 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

James Oestmann - Auburn Agency, Inc.

Auburn, NE

jimoestmann@yahoo.com

CIPA Welcomes Back Platinum Friend Member - Lacy Magby - iChannel by Conarc

Jill Whitley — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 19:13:47 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome back a Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Lacy Magby - iChannel by Conarc

Alpharetta, GA

lacy.magby@conarc.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - DJ Vogler - Town & Country Agribusiness

Jill Whitley — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 15:29:49 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

DJ Vogler - Town & Country Agribusiness

Vega, TX

djvogler@myfarmagent.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Heidi Hartless - Town & Country Agribusiness

Jill Whitley — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 15:27:15 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Heidi Hartless - Town & Country Agribusiness

Vega, TX

heidi@myfarmagent.com

A Salute to Chairman Emeritus Mike Conaway

Jill Whitley — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 20:03:00 GMT

After 15 years in Congress, House Agriculture Committee Chairman Emeritus Mike Conaway (R-TX) is retiring after he completes the remaining 17 months of his term in office.

America’s farmers and ranchers are losing an extraordinary champion in Congress.

Chairman Conaway served 4 years as the Chairman of the General Commodities and Risk Management Subcommittee where he helped Chairman Frank Lucas pass the 2014 Farm Bill.

At the time, Conaway warned that crafting a farm bill predicated on the notion that commodity prices will remain high forever was a bad idea.

Had Congress fully heeded the Chairman’s warnings then, we would have a stronger safety net today — but, thankfully, Congress heeded his warnings enough to make the safety net a lot stronger than what it would have been but for his intervention.

Of course, the Chairman also spent 4 years as Chairman of the full Committee during which time he succeeded in pulling off what many observers said he could not do: pass a Farm Bill.

H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 — the current Farm Bill — bears his name.

He is one of only a baker’s dozen of men hailing from just 7 states to have this distinction.

The pantheon includes:

Rep. K. Michael Conaway (R-TX), 2018

Rep. Frank D. Lucas (R-OK), 2014

Rep. Collin C. Peterson (D-MN), 2008

Rep. Larry E. Combest (R-TX), 2002

Rep. C. Patrick “Pat” Roberts (R-KS), 1996

Sen. Patrick J. Leahy (D-VT), 1990

Rep. E. Kika de la Garza (D-TX), 1985

Sen. Jesse Helms (R-NC), 1981

Sen. Herman Talmadge (D-GA), 1977

Rep. William R. Poage (D-TX), 1973

Rep. Harold D. Cooley (D-NC), 1965, 1956, 1949

Rep. Clifford R. Hope (R-KS), 1954, 1948

Rep. Marvin Jones (D-TX), 1938, 1933

Perhaps never has a Chairman more deftly defended the Committee-passed product on the House floor. With the help of House leadership on both sides of the aisle, the Ranking Member, and the Chairman of the Rules Committee, the 2018 Farm Bill cleared the House in a shape largely formulated by the Committee to best address difficult conditions in farm and ranch country, rejecting poison pill amendments.

His was the first Farm Bill to be approved by a GOP controlled White House and Congress since Clifford Hope’s bill in 1954, and the first by a GOP controlled Congress since 1996.

Mr. Conaway garnered strong support for his Farm Bill from the President, the Secretary of Agriculture, and House leadership where in the past chairman have often struggled to do so.

Despite a flat budget, Conaway insisted on holding crop insurance harmless during the process while strengthening the safety net provided by the Commodity Title of the Farm Bill — the two policies that keep farmers in business in the wake of a natural disaster or in the face of predatory foreign trading practices.

This was not an easy task without new money, with the 2018 Farm Bill being the first since 1990 not to have at least some new funds to work with, be it through use of an old budget baseline, new funding from the Budget Committee, new funding from the Ways & Means and Finance Committees, or savings from the elimination of a Direct Payment which leveraged both savings and new countercyclical support.

After the 2014 Farm Bill, Conaway never took his eye off of addressing the shortcomings in the cotton and dairy safety net. Conaway worked on temporary relief for both until a long term solution could be had and it was due to his persistence that cotton and dairy policy was significantly strengthened as part of the Commodity Title even before the Farm Bill debate began — thus, making the path possible for passage of the 2018 Farm Bill itself.

While an unapologetic champion of his district, West Texas, and Lone Star State agriculture, Conaway has always viewed himself as a friend and champion of all the nation’s farmers and ranchers and has demonstrated that in both words and action over and again on policies that have limited interest or impact back home but mean a great deal to producers elsewhere.

The confidence and trust he enjoys from his leadership, fellow committee leaders, and his colleagues have allowed him to step into policy debates outside of the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Committee, to help press for H2A reforms and improvements, to ensure a favorable tax reform bill for agriculture, to fend off attacks on appropriations, to ensure that environmental and energy policies are favorable to the farmer and rancher, and to make for certain that America’s farmers and ranchers get a fair shake on a level playing field in trade. And, when farmers and ranchers saw a difficult farm recession made worse by unjustified retaliatory tariffs, he was a forceful advocate for the Administration to stand by producers with trade aid.

Mostly, Conaway worked behind the scenes to effectuate a positive outcome for agriculture. But, occasionally, he would have to step onto center stage. Few will forget when the powers that be negotiated a spending deal in 2015 that would have imposed ruinous cuts on crop insurance, undoing in a single bill what had been built up over 25 years, and Chairman Conaway stepping in to block action until he received a commitment to unring the bell in a later transportation bill.

Mike Conaway has led American agriculture through many a battle.

He cares deeply for U.S. farmers and ranchers because he grew up in rural West Texas, surrounded by agriculture and reminded of its vital importance not just to the economy but the culture of his community.

So, when he came to Washington, he was a grounded man who knew what he was about, imbued with the time-honored though increasingly less celebrated virtues of faith in God, love of country, fealty to family and friends and community, duty, honor, self-sacrifice, self-restraint, charity, gratitude, personal piety, discipline, and the other truly great virtues that have made America great.

In short, we have so much respect for Mike Conaway and we thank him for his service and unwavering friendship.

The CSA Crew

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Rafe Hargrove - AgWorks

Jill Whitley — Wed, 10 Jul 2019 15:37:12 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Rafe Hargrove - AgWorks LLC

Amarillo, TX

rafe@hargroveinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Kent Fisher - Auburn Agency/Kent Fisher Ins

Jill Whitley — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 17:23:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Kent Fisher - Auburn Agency/Kent Fisher Insurance

Rock Port, MO

kfisher@rpt.coop

Ruth Gerdes and Brandon Willis Testify Before the House Agriculture Committee's General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Subcommittee

Jill Whitley — Thu, 20 Jun 2019 16:42:34 GMT

We would like to congratulate both Ruth Gerdes and Brandon Willis on their testimony on June 20, 2019 before the House Agriculture Committee’s General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Subcommittee. Rockin’ Ruth and Brando, along with all of the other witnesses, did a tremendous job outlining the importance of crop insurance to American agriculture. If you were unable to watch the hearing live, we would encourage you to do so here.

Ruth Gerdes and Brandon Willis with Tom Sell after the hearing.

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Trent Davis - Williams Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Wed, 22 May 2019 15:11:16 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Trent Davis - Williams Insurance Agency

Sylvester, GA

trentdavis@bellsouth.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Joshua Mitzel - Mitzel Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 14:54:12 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Joshua Mitzel - Mitzel Crop Insurance

Bowdle, SD

joshuamitzel@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Mindy Stone - Sherry Wegner Agency

Jill Whitley — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 18:37:22 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Mindy Stone - Sherry Wegner Agency

Big Spring, TX

mindy@swcia.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Corey McGillis - HUB International

Jill Whitley — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 19:45:12 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Associate-Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

John Fitzpatrick - Crop Growers LLP

Accord, NY

john.fitzpatrick@cropgrowers.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Brian Simmons - CropGuard Group, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 15:54:20 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Brian Simmons - CropGuard Group, Inc.

Brookshire, TX

bsimmons@cropguardgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - John Schmidt - CropGuard Group, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 15:53:11 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

John Schmidt - CropGuard Group, Inc.

East Benard, TX

jschmidt@cropguardgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Jennifer Orozco - CropGuard Group, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 15:51:52 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Jennifer Orozco - CropGuard Group, Inc.

San Benito, TX

jorozco@cropguardgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Gina Tanner - CropGuard Group, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 15:49:28 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Gina Tanner - CropGuard Group, Inc.

San Benito, TX

gtanner@cropguardgroup.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Keith Summers - Leist Mercantile, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 27 Nov 2018 16:30:32 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Keith Summers - Leist Mercantile, Inc.

Circleville, OH

ksummers@leistmercantile.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Aaron Cross - Peachey Insurance/Cross Insurance

Jill Whitley — Wed, 10 Oct 2018 15:19:19 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Aaron Cross - Peachey Insurance/Cross Insurance

Kinsley, KS

aaron_r_cross@hotmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Jon King - Watts and Associates

Jill Whitley — Wed, 03 Oct 2018 00:05:59 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jon King - Watts and Associates

Billings, MT

jking@wattsandassociates.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - James Ward - Ag Partners Coop, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 20:32:10 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

James Ward - Ag Partners Coop, Inc.

Hiawatha, KS

jward@agpartnerscoop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Ronnie Wegner - Sherry Wegner Agency - Concho Valley Branch

Jill Whitley — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 21:00:33 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Ronnie Wegner - Sherry Wegner Agency - Concho Valley Branch

San Angelo, TX

ronnie@swcia.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate-Affiliate Agent Member - Corey McGillis - HUB International

Jill Whitley — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 20:44:49 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Associate Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Corey McGillis - HUB International

Portland, ND

corey.mcgillis@hubinternational.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Sarah Quaintance - Koepke Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 20:26:23 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Sarah Quaintance - Koepke Insurance Agency

Fremont, OH

sarah@protectmycrops.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Kylie Crago - Koepke Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 20:24:33 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Kylie Crago - Koepke Insurance Agency

Wayne, OH

kylie@protectmycrops.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - June Thompson - Groton Ag Partners

Jill Whitley — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 20:21:45 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

June Thompson - Groton Ag Partners

Groton, SD

jrs@nvc.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Darcie Moody - Groton Ag Partners

Jill Whitley — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 20:19:56 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Darcie Moody - Groton Ag Partners

Groton, SD

dm@nvc.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Pat Pelzel - Sherry Wegner Agency-Glasscock

Jill Whitley — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 15:28:18 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Pat Pelzel - Sherry Wegner Agency - Glasscock Branch

Garden City, TX

p_pelzel@yahoo.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Matt Gaynier - Spartan Insurance

Jill Whitley — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 14:39:52 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Matt Gaynier - Spartan Insurance

Holland, OH

matt.gaynier@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Aaron Brand - Babel Agency Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 07 Aug 2018 19:05:34 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Aaron Brand - Babel Agency Inc.

Cairo, NE

brand_aaron@yahoo.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Jeremy Gewecke - Babel Agency Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 07 Aug 2018 19:03:06 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jeremy Gewecke - Babel Agency Inc.

Wood River, NE

gfarms1976@hotmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Jim McCanlies - Global Ag Risk Solutions

Jill Whitley — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 17:49:57 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Jim McCanlies - Global Ag Risk Solutions

Katy, TX

jim@agrisksolutions.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Kris Young - Williamson Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 15:21:19 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Kris Young - Williamson Insurance Agency

Van Wert, OH

kris@cropcoverage.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Greg Owens - Williamson Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 15:18:48 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Greg Owens - Williamson Insurance Agency

Convoy, OH

greg@cropcoverage.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Stacy McGarvey - Williamson Insurance Agency

Jill Whitley — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 15:16:27 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Stacy McGarvey - Williamson Insurance Agency

Paulding, OH

stacy@cropcoverage.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Affiliate Agent Member - Ty Cross - Hargrove Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 15:13:43 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome new Full Affiliate Agent member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Ty Cross - Hargrove Crop Insurance

Rotan, TX

tycross@hargroveinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Chris Cogburn - Sustainable Crop Insurance Services, LP

Jill Whitley — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 17:30:24 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Chris Cogburn - Sustainable Crop Insurance Services, LP

Lubbock, TX

chris@sustainablecropins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Trey Davis - Georgia Producers Alliance

Jill Whitley — Fri, 22 Jun 2018 15:36:36 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Trey Davis - Georgia Producers Alliance

Moultrie, GA

trey@georgiaproducersalliance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Clif Parks - AgriLogic Consulting, LLC

Jill Whitley — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 01:12:57 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Clif Parks - AgriLogic Consulting

College Station, TX

cparks@agrilogic.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Craig Mouchka - Indigo Ag, Inc.

Jill Whitley — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 15:23:40 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Craig Mouchka - Indigo Ag, Inc.

Memphis, TN

cmouchka@indigoag.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Joseph R. Plaetz - Granite Rock Insurance Agency, LLC

Jill Whitley — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 15:23:03 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Joseph R. Plaetz - Granite Rock Insurance Agency, LLC

Lucan, MN

graniterockinsurance@redred.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Julie Bargman - Farm & Home Services

Jill Whitley — Fri, 04 May 2018 21:41:10 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Julie Bargman - Farm & Home Services, Inc.

West Bend, IA

juliebargman@farmhomeservices.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - AgIntegrated Inc.

Jill Whitley — Fri, 04 May 2018 20:49:30 GMT

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Mike Santostefano and Rocky Hill - AgIntegrated Inc.

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make them feel welcome.

Mike Santostefano and Rocky Hill - AgIntegrated Inc.

State College, PA

rocky_hill1212@yahoo.com
santo@agintegrated.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Ed Fisher - Fisher's Agriculture Insurance Services LLC

Jill Whitley — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 16:08:02 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Ed Fisher - Fisher's Agricultural Insurance Services LLC

Adrian, MI

fishersag@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Johnie Kamery

Jill Whitley — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 15:33:07 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Johnie Kamery - Gary Thompson Agency, Inc.

Minden, NE

johniek@gtainsures.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Daniel Webb

Jill Whitley — Tue, 20 Feb 2018 15:22:43 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Daniel Webb - Crop Rx Insurance Services LLC

Fresno, CA

Dan@croprx.net

CIPA Welcomes New Platinum Friend Member - Angela Schroder

Jill Whitley — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 16:35:47 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Angela Schroder - U.S. E&O Brokers

Houston, TX

angela@useo.com

CIPA Welcomes New Associate Member - Charmain Nelson

Jill Whitley — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 16:15:41 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Associate member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Charmain Nelson - Texas Farm Credit Services

Robstown, TX

cnelson@texasfcs.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Joni Jackson

Jill Whitley — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 00:42:45 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Joni Jackson - Jackson Crop Insurance

Hays, KS

joni@jacksoncrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Rachel Myers

Jill Whitley — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 15:10:59 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Rachel Myers - Myers Crop Insurance Agency, LLC

Claude, TX

rachel@myerscropinsurance.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Kimberly Ryan

Jill Whitley — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 15:55:43 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Kimberly Ryan - Ryan Crop Insurance Services, Inc.

Blair, NE

kim@ryancrop.com

The Next Farm Bill - Conversations In The Field - August 30, 207

Jill Whitley — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 14:40:43 GMT

Instructions on how to speak at the listening session:

Doors will open at 8:00am. Upon arrival there will be a sign in sheet that everyone who attends will fill out. There will also be cards that can be filled out for those attendees wishing to offer comments. The card has several topics listed so attendees can indicate what they would like to offer their perspective on. Please limit comments to those issue areas under the Agriculture Committee’s jurisdiction.

Committee staff will collect all of the cards and organize them so that the Members will get to hear from a wide variety of stakeholders on all topics. The Members of the Committee want to hear from all of those impacted by farm policy, including rank and file producers in addition to the representatives of the commodity groups.

Following the opening remarks of the Chairman, a moderator will begin calling people to the microphones to offer their comments. Attendees will have up to 2 minutes to speak, and are encouraged to make the most of that time to deliver their key messages. Members may ask a follow up question, but for the most part they are there to hear the comments of attendees and listen to the input provided.

Committee staff will attempt to make sure that all topics and organizations will be represented by those wishing to speak, however time limitations may prevent some attendees from having a chance to speak. An email address is set up for people to submit any additional comments the Members did not get an opportunity to hear, or that speakers would like to supplement their statements with – that email address will be provided on site.

General Notes:

Admittance to Farm Progress Show is NOT required to attend.

Suggested Driving instructions to closest Farm Progress Show Parking Lot are below

Coming from North off Interstate

Exit I-72 at exit 144
turn left onto Rte 48 (heading south)
2^nd stop light turn left onto Brush College Rd.
At stop light (Mound Rd.) turn Left
Take 1^st right onto President Howard Brown Blvd.
Park as directed in Farm Progress Show parking area (to south end of lot)
Walk back to President Howard Brown Blvd
Walk south towards Richland Community College
Event held in Schilling Center

Coming in from South through town:

At stop light of Reas Bridge Road/Hubbard Ave. turn right (east)
At first opportunity turn left (north) into Richland Community College
Follow the ring road around the college to 2^nd right (Pres. Howard Brown Blvd), turn right (north)
Park as directed FPS parking area (to south end of lot)
Walk back to President Howard Brown Blvd
Walk south towards College
Event held in Schilling Center

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Bambi Sidwell

Jill Whitley — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 14:03:05 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make her feel welcome.

Bambi Sidwell - Sidwell Insurance Services, LLC

Piedmont, OK

bambi@sidwellins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Eric Payne

Jill Whitley — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 14:07:43 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Eric Payne - Insurance Plus

Aberdeen, SD

eric@ins-plus.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Ray Keiser

Jill Whitley — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 15:49:32 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Ray Keiser - Keiser Crop Insurance Inc.

Fordyce, NE

kciray@gpcom.net

CIPA Member Rex Williamson Pens Op-Ed in Columbus Dispatch

Jill Whitley — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 15:41:02 GMT

Distinguished CIPA member, Rex Williamson, authored an excellent op-ed that was published in the Columbus Dispatch, a major Ohio newspaper, Wednesday, July 26, 2017. We are very grateful to the entire Williamson family for their ongoing leadership.

http://www.dispatch.com/opinion/20170726/letter-us-farmers-rely-on-crop-insurance

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Joshua Donoho

Jill Whitley — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 16:06:46 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Joshua Donoho - Donoho Insurance Agency Inc.

Mount Vernon, IL

joshdonoho1@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Eric Gates

Jill Whitley — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 20:07:08 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Eric Gates - Iron Gates Insurance Group

Anthony, KS

eric@irongatesins.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Tanner Handcock

Jill Whitley — Wed, 31 May 2017 17:58:30 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Tanner Handcock - Crew Agency, Ltd

Philip, SD

thandcock@gwtc.net

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Kevin Harris

Jill Whitley — Wed, 31 May 2017 17:56:01 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Kevin Harris - Harris Crop Insurance

Abilene, KS

kharris@tctelco.net

CIPA Full Member, Bill Pearson pens Des Moines Register Op-Ed, "Don't Drain the Crop Insurance Pool"

Jill Whitley — Tue, 30 May 2017 14:09:15 GMT

Below is a link to an op-ed that appeared in the May 29th Des Moines Register penned by CIPA Full Member, Bill Pearson.

http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/opinion/columnists/iowa-view/2017/05/28/dont-drain-crop-insurance-pool/336992001/

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - William Hoobler

Jill Whitley — Wed, 10 May 2017 18:42:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

William Hoobler - Hoobler Insurance Services

Patterson, CA

whooblur@gmail.com

CIPA Welcomes New Platinim Friend Member-Farm Market iD

Jill Whitley — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 20:35:50 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Platinum Friend member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Joe Lopp - Farm Market iD

Omaha, NE

jlopp@farmmarketid.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Curtis Fix

Jill Whitley — Fri, 14 Apr 2017 20:42:37 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Curtis Fix - Yuma County Abstract Company

Wray, CO

curt@yumacountyabstract.com

Mirror Mirror on the Wall, Who is the Most Trusted Ag Advisor of Them All?

Jill Whitley — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 15:35:34 GMT

http://www.precisionag.com/professionals/mirror-mirror-on-the-wall-who-is-the-most-trusted-ag-advisor-of-them-all/

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Robert Avina

Jill Whitley — Thu, 23 Mar 2017 23:17:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Robert Avina - Vintage Crop Insurance Agency

Modesto, California

robert@vintagecrop.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Clay Burtrum

Jill Whitley — Thu, 23 Mar 2017 23:17:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Clay Burtrum - Farm Data Services

Stillwater, OK

jburtrum@farmdata.services

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Bryan Fullingim

Jill Whitley — Wed, 15 Mar 2017 22:17:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Fullingim Agency - Bryan Fullingim

Petersburg, Texas

bfagency@valornet.com

CIPA Welcomes New Full Member - Dan Steen

Jill Whitley — Wed, 15 Mar 2017 22:15:00 GMT

CIPA is pleased to welcome a new Full member to the association. Please help us make him feel welcome.

Steen Insurance - Dan Steen

Ravenna, Texas

steenins@msn.com

President Elect Trump Nominates Perdue for Ag Secretary

Jill Whitley — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 16:47:00 GMT

Trump: Former Georgia Governor 'Will Accomplish Great Things'

By Chris Clayton , DTN Ag Policy Editor

1/19/2017

OMAHA (DTN) -- After extensive deliberation, President-elect Donald Trump named former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue as his nominee for Agriculture secretary early Thursday.

In a statement, Trump noted Perdue "embraced polices under which Georgia farmers have thrived," and Perdue would bring that same level of success to USDA. "Perdue is deeply in touch with the concerns of American farmers and will fight for their prosperity," the transition team stated.

"Sonny Perdue is going to accomplish great things as Secretary of Agriculture," Trump said. "From growing up on a farm to being governor of a big agriculture state, he has spent his whole life understanding and solving the challenges our farmers face, and he is going to deliver big results for all Americans who earn their living off the land."

Perdue, 70, fills out the final cabinet position just one day before Trump's inauguration. Perdue was governor of Georgia from 2003 to 2011, but he also has a long history in the grain and feed industry as a founding partner for AGrow Star, a grain business with 11 elevator locations across Georgia and South Carolina. AGrow Star grew out a grain and fertilizer business Perdue's family built that later bought and merged with a group of grain elevators in 2000 that had been called Milner Grain.

"I am proud and honored to be joining President-elect Trump's administration as his Secretary of Agriculture," Perdue said. "Beginning as a simple Georgia farm boy, making sure Americans who make their livelihood in the agriculture industry are thriving is near and dear to my heart, and I'm going to champion the concerns of American agriculture and work tirelessly to solve the issues facing our farm families in this new role."

Even before the official announcement, several major agricultural groups praised the announcement. Zippy Duvall, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation and a Georgia farmer, stated that Perdue's nomination "is welcome news to the nation's farmers and ranchers" and would provide a strong voice for agriculture.

"I have known Gov. Perdue for years. I've seen firsthand his commitment to the business of agriculture as we worked together on issues facing farmers and ranchers in our home state of Georgia," Duvall said. "He understands the challenges facing rural America because that's where he was born and raised. He is a businessman who recognizes the impact immigration reform, trade agreements and regulation have on a farmer's bottom line and ability to stay in business from one season to the next."

Danny Brown, president of AGrow Star, told DTN in an interview earlier this month that Perdue is the managing member of the company. He also has worked with Perdue for 40 years in the grain business.

"We are mainly a corn, wheat and soybean operation," Brown said. "We'll certainly handle any type of grain. We'll handle oats, we'll handle soybean meal or grain sorghum, but that that takes care of 95% of our business."

The company has sold the fertilizer part of the business, but AGrow Star has just over 3 million bushels of storage capacity at its 11 locations and also has a trucking business. As Brown described it, AGrow Star has several marketing services for grain producers in the region.

In his capacity, Perdue serves on several boards in agriculture, including as a board member for the National Grain and Feed Association and as the secretary for the Georgia Agribusiness Council.

"He's the big dog in charge," Brown described Perdue. "Sonny's job is to take care of the entity and oversee it and make sure that we do our job."

Perdue had gone to veterinary school and went back home to be a veterinarian. His father and brother-in-law had started the grain and fertilizer business, but over time Perdue personally got more involved in that side of agriculture as well.

"The grain business changed in the late '70s from buying and selling to marketing and we were all part of a marketing group called White Commercial and we learned to market grain rather than just buying and selling," Brown said.

"He knows a lot about the grain business and he knows a lot of people in the industry," Brown said. "He is well versed in fertilizer, chemicals, grain business and marketing."

In 1988-89, Perdue was president of the Southeastern Grain and Feed Association. Bonnie Holloman, who has been executive director of the association for 37 years, has known Perdue since the 1980s and praised his selection.

"He is going to bring so much to that position," Holloman said. "I was just so elated when I heard President-elect Trump was considering him ... He is a man of integrity and a family man who just really cares. Agriculture is going to be better off having him in there."

The selection process for Agriculture secretary was the longest for an incoming president since Franklin Roosevelt chose Henry Wallace for the job in 1933. It's unclear what delayed the process as Trump focused on Texans, women and a pair of Hispanic candidates for the job before offering it to Perdue. Members of Trump's agricultural advisory team also became upset when it appeared Trump might offer the job to a Democratic senator.

Perdue met with Trump about the Agriculture secretary job on Nov. 30. Afterward, a parade of candidates met with Trump, Vice President-elect Mike Pence and others on the transition team. Yet, Trump eventually came back around to Perdue.

If confirmed, Perdue will replace outgoing Secretary Tom Vilsack who is President Barack Obama's longest-serving cabinet member, having served the full tenure of Obama's presidency. USDA is one of the largest departments in the federal government with a budget of $148 billion for fiscal-year 2016, broken down with 73% focuses on nutrition programs; 13% in commodity programs; 8% in conservation and forestry; and all other functions such as rural development and food safety accounting for 6% of the budget.

Perdue grew up the son of a farmer and a schoolteacher in central Georgia and has a doctorate in veterinary medicine from the University of Georgia. He also served in the Air Force as a captain before returning back to Georgia in the mid-1970s to start his career. He was a county zoning commissioner and then became a state representative and later a state senator, serving as a Democrat. Perdue was the top Democrat in the Georgia Senate from 1994-97. He then switched parties in 1998 and continued to win state Senate races as a Republican. Perdue then won the governorship in 2002, becoming the first Republican governor of Georgia since the Reconstruction era after the Civil War. Perdue left office in 2011 because Georgia has term limits on its governorship.

Perdue's time as a Democrat led to questions by some whether he would be accepted in the hyper-partisan environment of Washington, D.C., but Trump likely focused on Perdue's deep business ties in the grain industry rather than Perdue's political switch.

Known for its peaches and Vidalia onions, Georgia has a diverse agricultural industry. The state ranks as the country's largest state for chicken broiler production, as well as peanuts and second in the country in cotton production, according to the 2012 USDA Ag Census. The state also ranks among the top five states for fruits, tree nuts and berries.

As governor, Perdue worked to promote agriculture in Georgia and industry expansion. The poultry industry, for instance, continued to grow in the state. Georgia, though, also was hit by drought during his tenure. He pushed water conservation during the drought and also sued the Army Corps of Engineers over battles regarding water flows between neighboring states. Perdue also drew both criticism and praise when he held a prayer vigil at the state capitol to pray for rain. The event in November 2007 drew hundreds of people.

"I'm here today to appeal to you and to all Georgians and all people who believe in the power of prayer to ask God to shower our state, our region, our nation with the blessings of water," Perdue said at the time.

Perdue also has gotten some face time as an actor. He had a cameo in the movie "We Are Marshall" as the football coach for East Carolina University. The movie about the Marshall University football team was filmed in Georgia. Perdue said at the time, "I fit the role perfectly as an old jock," according to the Associate Press article on his cameo. In college, Perdue was a walk-on to the University of Georgia football program.

After leaving office, Perdue announced he and others started Perdue Partners in 2011, which was reportedly a trading company in Atlanta focusing on exports. Perdue Partners included cousin David Perdue, who is now a U.S. senator from Georgia and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Perdue Partners has a LinkedIn page, but its website doesn't open to offer any further details about the company.

While sharing the same last name as Perdue Farms, Sonny Perdue stated in a news release as governor that he is not related to the Maryland family that owns the poultry company, which does have operations in Georgia.

CHAIRMAN COMBEST WRITES ARTICLE IN HILL NEWSPAPER - "WHY TRUMP NEEDS A STRONG AGRICULTURE SECRETARY"

Jill Whitley — Mon, 12 Dec 2016 16:05:36 GMT

http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/the-administration/309092-why-trump-needs-a-strong-agriculture-secretary

Farm Policy Facts Addresses Heritage Foundation Report

Jill Whitley — Thu, 08 Sep 2016 18:11:01 GMT

HERITAGE ADVISES END TO COMMODITY, CROP INSURANCE PROGRAMS

The Heritage Foundation is laying out its case for eliminating commodity-support programs and crop insurance policies that protect farmers' revenue losses. Pro Ag on Wednesday obtained a copy of a report that will guide the agenda of the conservative think tank's lobbying arm, Heritage Action, when negotiations over the next farm bill ramp up. The report argues that most farmers have the means to manage risk without taxpayer help, and the roughly $15 billion spent annually on subsidies distorts planting decisions while promoting risky practices, like abandoning crop diversification or farming land that is likely to flood or erode.

"Although farms are generally financially healthy ... some farmers are going to lose their farms, just as restaurant owners will lose their restaurants and pastors will lose their churches," the report says. "The federal government should not be guaranteeing that all operations will survive, and, even worse, guaranteeing that all operations will flourish."

The Heritage Foundation calls for an end to several programs enacted in the 2014 Farm Bill, including the commodity-support programs Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage, as well as the new dairy insurance program. U.S. sugar policy that controls production and imports to maintain certain prices also should be eliminated, it advises. The group also recommends that federal crop insurance only protect against deep yield losses and disasters, not against losses in revenue, which now account for 77 percent of all policies. Producers could select the same coverage levels available now, but taxpayers would only subsidize policies with up to 70 percent protection. To help with the transition, one-time block grants should be given to states to use for agricultural purposes, the group suggests. Read the report here.

Some early reactions:

Dale Moore, executive director of public policy at the American Farm Bureau Federation: The Heritage Foundation has once again proposed leaving farmers and ranchers without a viable safety net, he says, and he questions whether researchers at Heritage Action considered the current farm economy and the challenges facing dairy and cotton producers, in particular. Congress and agriculture groups in recent years have worked to move toward a more market-oriented system, Moore says. The Farm Bureau doesn't believe good agriculture policy means sacrificing the people who grow food.

Tom Sell, principal of the lobbying firm Combest, Sell & Associates: Congress has rejected the Heritage Foundation's arguments in the past, as lawmakers realize farmers take on "extraordinary financial risks" growing crops for a "volatile and distorted world market."

"They know the farm policies that Heritage's 65 pages of ink try to demean represent one-quarter of one percent of the federal budget and that the risk of getting this area of policy wrong is far greater than this small cost, which has fostered the most productive and dynamic agricultural sector in the history of the world," said Sell, who is an adviser to Farm Policy Facts, a coalition of agricultural groups.

Tom Sell response in full

"While Heritage puts out some thoughtful work on many subjects, their studies on agriculture policy are the same old recycled, detached, ivory tower babble.

"Thankfully, most of the Members of Congress they are trying to influence know some farm families. They know they work incredibly hard and take on extraordinary financial risks to do important work that is of intrinsic value to our society. They know that growing crops for a volatile and distorted world market is more risk than most Americans would be willing to take on. They know family farms are better equated to small businesses than wage earners. They know the farm policies that Heritage's 65 pages of ink try to demean represent one quarter of one percent of the federal budget and that the risk of getting this area of policy wrong is far greater than this small cost, which has fostered the most productive and dynamic agricultural sector in the history of the world.

"In a nutshell, Congress and the American people have rejected these aloof arguments in the past and we have no reason to believe this reprise will change that."

We are working on a more detailed response for Farm Policy Facts (www.farmpolicyfacts.org) to address some of the particular problems with the Heritage study. We just wanted to forward this along this morning so that you know we are in the fight.

Stand proud. Thanks as always for what you do.

CIPA Submits Official Comment to RMA Regarding "Practical to Replant"

Jill Whitley — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 20:20:08 GMT

PRACTICAL TO REPLANT

On June 22, RMA published an interim final rule which, among other things, would change the definition of "practical to replant." You can access it at the link below:

http://www.rma.usda.gov/bulletins/managers/2015/mgr-15-007.pdf.

Many just recently became aware of this and started thinking through the implications after the sales season and acreage reporting. The CIPA Regulatory Affairs Committee and Board deliberated on this issue over the last couple of weeks, and CIPA submitted comments yesterday on the August 22 deadline. You can read the comments here.

Secretary Vilsack Testimony

Jill Whitley — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 16:21:09 GMT

Secretary Vilsack hit it out of the park in his advocacy of American agriculture in this video of testimony he offered earlier this year. Click here to view the video.

New NCIS Video Spotlights Public Support for US Farmers, Farm Policy

Jill Whitley — Fri, 05 Aug 2016 16:20:07 GMT

NEW VIDEO SPOTLIGHTS PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR US FARMERS, FARM POLICY

(OVERLAND PARK, Kan.) – America's farmers and farm policies, including crop insurance, receive overwhelming, bipartisan support from voters, according to a new video released by National Crop Insurance Services (NCIS).

The video comes after the Republican and Democratic parties wrapped up their national conventions, moving America into the heart of the election season.

"As the first Tuesday in November approaches, voters will be busy examining candidates from the left, candidates from the right, and hoping they won't be left behind," the video states. "But there's one thing almost everybody can agree on: America's farmers and farm policies are moving the country forward."

The educational piece is based on results from a recent public opinion poll showing that nearly 90 percent of U.S. voters have a favorable view of farmers, with 92 percent agreeing it is important to provide farmers with federal funding.

NCIS's video also illustrates that the majority of voters prefer crop insurance, which is delivered by private companies instead of the federal government and partially funded by farmers.

"That's a winning set-up in most voters' minds," it states. "Nearly 80 percent of whom said they approved of farmers getting discounts on crop insurance premiums, with nearly three-fourths applauding farm policy's current cost-sharing structure."

These results, the video continues, shouldn't be a surprise as eight in 10 voters agree that a strong and thriving farming industry is critical to America's national security.

"So while agriculture's critics may continue their unrelenting, misguided fight on farmers and farm policy," it concludes, "the numbers show that Farm Country will have a powerful ally in its corner this November and beyond…the American people."

Click here to view this video on YouTube.

2016-17 CIPA Board of Directors Announced

Jill Whitley — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 16:09:46 GMT

CIPA held their Annual Board Member Election at their CIPA Business Meeting in Kansas City on May 3, 2016. Below is the list of our CIPA Board of Directors for the 2016-17 membership year.

2016-17 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

	TERM EXPIRES
William Cole, Chairman	2018
Gid Moore, Vice Chairman	2019
Marva Ulleland, Secretary	2017
Jack Tank, Treasurer	2018
Mark Andreasen	2019
Tom Babel	2019
Roger Buchanan	2019
Pete Dunn	2018
Matthew Flemming	2019
Joanie Grimes	2017
Travis Keister	2017
Sam Sonnenberg	2017
Jason Williamson	2019

USDA Provides Targeted Assistance to Cotton Producers to Share in the Cost of Ginning

Jill Whitley — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 17:52:54 GMT

USDA Provides Targeted Assistance to Cotton Producers to Share in the Cost of Ginning

One-time Payments to Begin in July to Assist with 2016 Ginning Season

WASHINGTON, June 6, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) will provide an estimated $300 million in cost-share assistance payments to cotton producers through the new Cotton Ginning Cost-Share program, in order to expand and maintain the domestic marketing of cotton.

“Today's announcement shows USDA continues to stand with America’s cotton producers and our rural communities,” said Vilsack. “The Cotton Ginning Cost Share program will offer meaningful, timely and targeted assistance to cotton growers to help with their anticipated ginning costs and to facilitate marketing. The program will provide, on average, approximately 60 percent more assistance per farm and per producer than the 2014 program that provided cotton transition assistance.”

Through the Cotton Ginning Cost Share program, eligible producers can receive a one-time cost share payment, which is based on a producer’s 2015 cotton acres reported to FSA, multiplied by 40 percent of the average ginning cost for each production region. With the pressing need to provide assistance ahead of the 2016 ginning season this fall, USDA will ensure the application process is straight-forward and efficient. The program estimates the costs based on planting of cotton in 2015, and therefore the local FSA offices already have this information for the vast majority of eligible producers and the applications will be pre-populated with existing data. Sign-up for the program will begin June 20 and run through Aug. 5, 2016 at the producer’s local FSA office. Payments will be processed as applications are received, and are expected to begin in July.

Since 2011, cotton fiber markets have experienced dramatic changes. As a result of low cotton prices and global oversupply, cotton producers are facing economic uncertainty that has led to many producers having lost equity and having been forced to liquidate equipment and land to satisfy loans. The ginning of cotton is necessary prior to marketing the lint for fiber, or the seed for oil or feed. While the Cotton Ginning Cost-Share program makes payments to cotton producers for cotton ginning costs, the benefits of the program will be felt by the broader marketing chain associated with cotton and cottonseed, including cotton gins, cooperatives, marketers and cottonseed crushers and the rural communities that depend on them.

The program has the same eligibility requirements as were used for the 2014 Cotton Transition Assistance Program, including a $40,000 per producer payment limit, requirement to be actively engaged in farming, meet conservation compliance and a $900,000 adjusted gross income limit.

To learn more about the Cotton Ginning Cost-Share program, visit www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/CGCS/index or contact a local FSA county office. To find your local FSA county office, visithttp://offices.usda.gov.

Since 2009, USDA has worked to strengthen and support American agriculture, an industry that supports one in 11 American jobs, provides American consumers with more than 80 percent of the food we consume, ensures that Americans spend less of their paychecks at the grocery store than most people in other countries, and supports markets for homegrown renewable energy and materials. USDA has also provided $5.6 billion in disaster relief to farmers and ranchers; expanded risk management tools with products like Whole Farm Revenue Protection; and helped farm businesses grow with $36 billion in farm credit. The Department has engaged its resources to support a strong next generation of farmers and ranchers by improving access to land and capital; building new markets and market opportunities; and extending new conservation opportunities. USDA has developed new markets for rural-made products, including more than 2,500 biobased products through USDA's BioPreferred program; and invested $64 billion in infrastructure and community facilities to help improve the quality of life in rural America. For more information, visit www.usda.gov/results.

Crop Insurance Support Among Farmers Nearly Unanimous - CIPA Releases Survey Results at Industry Meeting

Jill Whitley — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 16:44:18 GMT

For more information contact Jeff Harrison at jeff@combest-sell.com.

Crop Insurance Support Among Farmers Nearly Unanimous

(INDIAN WELLS, Calif.)—Almost every farmer who uses crop insurance supports the risk management tool and opposes legislative attempts to undermine it. That’s according to a new study conducted by the Crop Insurance Professionals Association (CIPA), which was released at this week’s annual crop insurance convention.

Crop insurance agents represented by CIPA delivered the survey to their customers, and more than 1,300 farmers, growing 20 different crops in 26 states, responded. Among the results:

96 percent oppose funding cuts to crop insurance like the one recently proposed in the White House’s FY2017 budget request;
97 percent oppose reopening the 2014 Farm Bill to change crop insurance;
94 percent oppose the AFFIRM Act, a legislative proposal introduced last year to reduce crop insurance benefits and limit coverage options;
97 percent prefer that crop insurance be administered by the private sector instead of the government;
93 percent said their banks demand crop insurance coverage before extending needed operating capital; and
99 percent noted that current low commodity prices and extreme weather make crop insurance coverage a necessity.

“It is clear that farmers depend on crop insurance and are willing to fight to defend a policy that helps them combat extreme weather and volatile markets,” said William Cole, an agent from Batesville, Mississippi and current chairman of CIPA. “Farmers made their support very clear late last year when they rallied together to beat back attempts by some in Congress to erode the current system.”

The survey also took on two vocal farm policy opponents that are working to undermine crop insurance. The first is the Center for Rural Affairs, which recently produced a report card on crop insurance’s effectiveness and gave it a failing grade. CIPA asked farmers to grade crop insurance, and fewer than 1 percent agreed with the Center for Rural Affairs’ assessment. Instead, nearly six in 10 respondents gave crop insurance an A and 36 percent selected a B.

Next, the survey asked if it were appropriate for university professors to profit from designing crop insurance policies and then take money from farm policy opponents to criticize crop insurance. Ninety-four percent of respondents said, “Making money being on both sides of an issue is a conflict of interest.”

The survey can be viewed at this link.

Chairman Combest's Latest Column in The Hill - "The Rising Importance of Food to America's National Security"

Jill Whitley — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 15:15:19 GMT

Click here to read the article.

Crop Insurance Fix Update

Jill Whitley — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 18:29:39 GMT

We have great news to report!

Thanks to the tenacity and hard work of House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway (R-TX), a full repeal of the provision that would otherwise kill Federal Crop Insurance has been included in the final Highway Bill that is being reported out of the House and Senate conference committee this afternoon. Importantly, in full conformance with the pledge made to Chairman Conaway the offsets to pay for the repeal of this noxious provision are not coming from within the Agriculture Committees’ jurisdiction.

Here is how the language in the Highway Bill reads:

SEC. 32205. REPEAL.

Effective as of November 2, 2015, the date of the enactment of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–74), section 201 of such Act and the amendments made by such section are repealed, and the provisions of law amended by such section are hereby restored to appear as if such section had not been enacted into law.

The next step is that the Highway Bill conference report must be voted on up or down by the House and Senate, with no amendment. Should Congress approve the measure, the President is expected to sign it into law.

Chairman Conaway has praised House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI), House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), and House Transportation Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) for their leadership in supporting this critical repeal as part of the Highway Bill.

As you recall, a provision designed to kill Federal Crop Insurance was inserted in the Bipartisan Budget Agreement via a back room deal struck in the middle of the night. But, within 36 hours, Chairman Conaway had secured firm commitments from House leadership to repeal the provision in the Omnibus Appropriations Bill and to do so without imposing cuts elsewhere within the Agriculture Committee’s jurisdiction.

Chairman Conaway has enjoyed the strong backing of his Ranking Member, Rep. Collin Peterson (D-MN), Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS) and Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), many other congressional leaders and rank and file Members of Congress. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), and Majority Whip John Cornyn (R-TX) who is a long-time champion of crop insurance, pledged to honor the agreement in a floor colloquy with Chairman Roberts.

Importantly, our champions in Congress enjoyed the strong backing of folks like you! Your emails and your calls were crucial. You made a huge difference! We are proud of you all and we cannot thank you enough!

We will let you know if your efforts are needed in whipping for the Highway Bill. We may also be called on to help with the Omnibus Bill. Even though the crop insurance fix is not going to be on the Omnibus because Leadership moved it to the Highway Bill to give crop insurance an earlier, surer fix, we certainly would still owe it to our friends to help them with this other legislation if and when called upon to do so.

But, for now, we just wanted you to be aware that a promise was made to you earlier in the month and it increasingly appears that that promise will be kept.

Chalk up a big win for the good guys!

Yours gratefully,

The CSA Crew

**IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT" Hard Work Paid Off

Jill Whitley — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 21:14:58 GMT

Thank you for all of your hard work and effort. Your work paid off.

Although the crop insurance provision will remain in the debt ceiling bill, incoming Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI), Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) have all three pledged to Chairman Mike Conaway (R-TX) and Ranking Member Collin Peterson (D-MN) that the provision will be stripped out in the Omnibus Appropriations Bill expected to come before Congress this month or in December.

Importantly, under the agreement, the provision will be stripped out and with *NO* cuts from the Farm Bill or Crop Insurance to replace them.

Members of Congress woke up this morning to read front page headlines of how Chairman Conaway is leading the fight to protect crop insurance.

Moreover, Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS) and Ranking Members Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), who have also expressed strong opposition to the provision, are reportedly working to gain similar assurances from Senate leadership, with reports saying Chairman Roberts met with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) this afternoon.

Reports indicate that the White House is also on board.

We hope that everybody receiving this email will politely flood Chairman Mike Conaway (R-TX) and Ranking Member Peterson (D-MN) with heartfelt thanks for their truly heroic work. Chairman Conaway dug his heels in early and would not relent until he won this commitment, and Rep. Peterson and many others backed his play.

But, also vital was the role that each and every one of you played. Had each of you just sat back and said it will get fixed in the omnibus instead of working like the dickens, we would not have had this win today.

Your leadership made a huge difference. We were told by Capitol Hill that they had never seen the likes of this grassroots effort, not even during the Farm Bill. Offices were getting bombarded. Even friendly ones who said they didn’t mind.

In addition, please be sure to thank these Members who stood with Chairman Conaway and Mr. Peterson by signing the letter that said the provision must come out or they would work to defeat the bill:

K. Michael Conaway

Collin C. Peterson

Eric A. “Rick” Crawford

Frank D. Lucas

Jason Smith

Kevin Cramer

Scott DesJarlais

Stephen Fincher

Rod Blum

Filemon Vela

Tim Huelskamp

Trent Kelly

Tom Emmer

Doug LaMalfa

Blake Farenthold

Ryan Zinke

Ted Poe

Austin Scott

Adrian Smith

Randy Neugebauer

John R. Moolenaar

Adam Kinzinger

Tom Rooney

Ralph Abraham

Dan Newhouse

Rick Allen

Steve King

Roger Williams

Randy Weber

Corrine Brown

Marlin A. Stutzman

Earl L. “Buddy” Carter

David Rouzer

Ted S. Yoho

Bill Flores

Sean Duffy

Sanford Bishop

Steve Pearce

Chris Collins

Rodney Davis

Tom Rice

Bob Gibbs

Bennie Thompson

Jackie Walorski

Charles Boustany

Michael McCaul

Bill Posey

David Young

Randy Hultgren

Mike Pompeo

Reid Ribble

Mo Brooks

Kevin Yoder

Darin LaHood

Todd Young

Lynn Westmoreland

There are also other Members who, while they did not sign onto the letter, were working the issue hard on our behalf. Some high profile examples include House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) who led efforts to iron out the agreement, plusHouse Armed Services Committee Chairman Mac Thornberry (R-TX), Rep. Kristi Noem (R-SD), and Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) who all backed Chairman Conaway and were tireless advocates in favorably resolving this issue. They, too, should be thanked.

Members who signaled they wanted onto the letter before it was pulled back due to the agreement include:

Tom Cole

Randy Forbes

Candice Miller

Robert Hurt

John Ratcliffe

Mo Brooks

As a cautionary note, while this commitment is significant, a huge win, it is not done. There is going to have to be a lot of work to complete the job. Crazy groups that came out in support of the provision like EWG, Sustainable Ag, the R Street Institute, etc. are still going to be working to kill crop insurance. In fact, just today, the usual suspects sent a letter to all 435 House Members. You can read their hogwash below.

So, between now and the Omnibus, we are going to have to continue to make our voices heard until the job is done and this issue is put to bed.

Thank you for all that you did to make this agreement come together. Again, I hope that you take time to thank these Members, particularly Chairman Conway and his crew for leading the fight. They were heroic.

The CSA Crew

----------------------------

Support the Common Sense Crop Insurance Reforms of the Bipartisan Budget Act

From: The Honorable Ron Kind
Sent By: Natalie.Mamerow@mail.house.gov
Date: 10/28/2015

Dear Colleague,

Reform to our federal crop insurance program is badly needed.

In particular, the windfall profits being reaped by giant crop insurance companies need to be reduced. In recent years, the reinsurance agreement struck between USDA and the insurance industry has guaranteed insurance giants like ADM Crop Risk Services a 14 percent rate of return.

At a time when many Americans are still struggling to recover from the recession, no industry should be guaranteed a 14 percent rate of return.

Fortunately, Sec. 201 of H.R. 1314 would reduce to 8.9 percent the rate of return guaranteed to crop insurance companies, generating $3 billion in savings. These important reforms will not only strike a better deal for taxpayers but will have no impact on farmers and no impact on the number of companies who offer insurance to farmers.

Contrary to misleading arguments being made by opponents of this important reform, reducing the windfall profits being reaped by some of the nation’s most successful business will have no impact on the cost of crop insurance policies being offered to farmers.

Instead, Sec. 201 of H.R. 1314 will ensure that crop insurance giants pay a fair share of the indemnities being collected by farmers when farm revenues fall or crops fail.

Large insurance companies have reported record earnings in recent years. According to CRS, crop insurance companies have reported underwriting gains in nine of the last ten years. Overall, total underwriting gains between 2003 and 2013 topped $12 billion.

Now is the time to include long overdue reforms of the reinsurance agreement between USDA and the crop insurance industry.

We urge you to support this common sense crop insurance reform in H.R. 1314, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015.

Sincerely,

Ron Kind Charlie Dent Rosa DeLauro

Member of Congress Member of Congress Member of Congress

Earl Blumenauer John J. Duncan, Jr.

Member of Congress Member of Congress

Chairman Combest's Hill Column - "How the Budget Deal Harms Farmers, Costs Jobs and Kills Crop Insurance"

Jill Whitley — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 14:32:45 GMT

Click here to view Chairman Combest's column in The Hill.

ACTION ALERT Status of Provision To Kill Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 14:03:19 GMT

Many of you are eager for an update on the status of the provision in the budget deal that would kill crop insurance.

The bad news is, the situation is not yet resolved. The good news is, you are having a huge impact. What can you do now?

We are being asked to double up and keep up the pressure, pounding the point home that this language must be stripped out of the bill or the bill must be defeated.

You should contact Members you already have contacted and reach out to others in your state. If you have friends, relatives, or colleagues in other congressional districts, ask them to weigh in as well. Chairman Conaway and Ranking Member Peterson have been collecting signatories on a letter and are trying to get as many signatories as possible. The list of Members who have signed on the letter is at the bottom of this email along with the letter. If your congressman (not senators) is not on the letter, please call the member and ask why they are not. And then strongly urge that he sign.

One way to introduce a fresh talking point is to send them the column written yesterday by Chairman Combest. It lays out clearly what is at stake and how we got to this point. This is not a mere attempt to save $3B. This is a stealth effort to kill crop insurance. You can find the column here: How the budget deal harms farmers, costs jobs and kills crop insurance.

Again, here is how to contact your congressmen and senators. Go to http://capwiz.com/yo-demo/dbq/officials/. Enter the Congressman or Senator's name in the space provided and click go to find the Member. Then click on the staff tab to identify the Agriculture LA. The email format for House staffers is: firstname.lastname@mail.house.gov. For Senate staff it is firstname_lastname@senatorslastname.senate.gov, for example John Doe in Senator Smith’s office would be John_Doe@Smith.Senate.gov. We would also urge that you call the main telephone line and leave a similar message.

We greatly appreciate you taking the time out of your busy day to stand up and fight for what's right.

Please holler with questions.

The CSA Crew

K. Michael Conaway

Collin C. Peterson

Eric A. “Rick” Crawford

Frank D. Lucas

Jason Smith

Kevin Cramer

Scott DesJarlais

Stephen Fincher

Rod Blum

Filemon Vela

Tim Huelskamp

Trent Kelly

Tom Emmer

Doug LaMalfa

Blake Farenthold

Ryan Zinke

Ted Poe

Austin Scott

Adrian Smith

Randy Neugebauer

John R. Moolenaar

Adam Kinzinger

Tom Rooney

Ralph Abraham

Dan Newhouse

Rick Allen

Steve King

Roger Williams

Randy Weber

Corrine Brown

Marlin A. Stutzman

Earl L. “Buddy” Carter

David Rouzer

Ted S. Yoho

Bill Flores

Sean Duffy

Sanford Bishop

Steve Pearce

Chris Collins

Rodney Davis

Tom Rice

Bennie Thompson

Charles Boustany

Bob Gibbs

Dear____:

It has come to our attention that the “Bipartisan Budget Agreement of 2015” contains a provision that violates our pledge not to reopen the 2014 Farm Bill and would inflict serious injury on America’s farmers and ranchers at a time when net farm income is projected to be down by 53 percent over the past two years.

Section 201 of the bill is widely expected to end Federal Crop Insurance, which is critical to producers and lenders alike.

Specifically, the provision proposes to reduce rates of return to crop insurance companies from a gross of about 14.5 percent down to a gross of 8.9 percent. However, this does not tell the real story. Since 2011 actual returns to companies have averaged about 5 percent, and factoring in costs, the average returns are much closer to zero. The reduction contained in section 201 would kill private sector delivery which is responsible for the success of Federal Crop Insurance.

Not even two years have passed since we made a commitment with the passage of a bipartisan 5-year farm bill that included $23 billion in savings. The current Bipartisan Budget Agreement of 2015 breaks that promise.

Nobody consulted the Agriculture Committees of Congress when this provision was included in the bill, the details of which were not posted until the early morning hours of Tuesday, October 27. Instead, a reckless provision of devastating consequences was quite literally inserted in a backroom in the middle of the night.

This provision must be removed from the bill. If it is not stripped from the bill, we will have no choice but to work to defeat this measure.

Sincerely,

__________/s/________________   _____________/s/_______________
Chairman K. Michael Conaway          Ranking Member Collin Peterson

Politico Article - Budget deal faces last-minute protest by Republicans

Jill Whitley — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 01:53:53 GMT

http://www.politico.com/story/2015/10/budget-deal-faces-last-minute-protest-by-republicans-215223

National Journal Article: The Latest Budget-Deal Hurdle: Farm Policy

Jill Whitley — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 01:52:52 GMT

http://www.nationaljournal.com/s/91542/latest-budget-deal-hurdle-farm-policy

ACTION ALERT UPDATE Budget Deal Hits Roadblocks

Jill Whitley — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 21:44:27 GMT

We know that all of you have been working this issue and wondering what is happening.

Please know that you are making a difference and please keep up the pressure.

Here is a story about what you are accomplishing. Please, please keep it up.

The CSA Crew

____________________________________________

Budget deal hits roadblocks

By Manu Raju, Deirdre Walsh and Ted Barrett, CNN

Updated 4:35 PM ET, Tue October 27, 2015

Republican leaders are running into a fresh set of problems as they try to ram through a last-ditch budget deal, with lawmakers from rural states objecting to cuts to the crop insurance program and others balking at the price tag of the proposal.

As Speaker John Boehner tried to lock down votes on the House floor, a number of lawmakers refused to endorse the plan, angry that they were being jammed by their party leaders and worried about the impact the plan may have on their districts.

While GOP leaders still expressed confidence the bill would pass as early as Wednesday, it appeared that the final vote tally could be close.

Tuesday afternoon the Congressional Budget Office informed leaders that the methods they used to pay for the deal left them roughly $5 billion short. Leadership aides from both parties downplayed the budget hole, saying the CBO didn't give them full credit for the savings they came up with and there would likely be some technical changes to the bill, but no major revisions.

Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid said the CBO issue won't sideline the deal. "The number isn't quite right, but that doesn't matter," Reid said. "The point is this: the CBO numbers have fluctuated for more than a week. One day up. One day down. We are satisfied with the agreement we have."

Another problem facing leaders: Rural lawmakers sharply objected to language included in the deal that would cut into crop insurance subsidies for farmers.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway, R-Texas, began circulating a letter Tuesday urging fellow Republicans to oppose the bill until the provision is removed.

"As chairman of the Ag Committee, I got to protect the integrity of the farm bill," Conaway said. "The overall impact is to flush insurance companies out of business, which I think is the President's intent."

Under the deal, rate of return for crop insurance will be lowered to 8.9 percent -- down from 14.5 percent -- in order to cut costs and help pay for the increased spending. Republicans and Democrats agreed to raise domestic and defense spending by $80 billion over the next two years, with an additional $32 billion in emergency war funding. It would extend the national debt limit until March 2017 and make cuts to the Social Security disability program.

Conaway, along with the Senate Agriculture Chairman Pat Roberts, R-Kansas, and top committee Democrats issued statements blasting the change to the crop insurance program, and arguing they would oppose any changes to the 2014 farm bill they negotiated.

"While Congressional leaders may sell this package as providing budget stability, it is anything but stable for farmers and ranchers," Roberts said in a statement, adding, "once again, our leaders are attempting to govern by backroom deals where the devil is in the details. I will continue to oppose any attempts to cut crop insurance funding or to change crop insurance program policies."

Florida Rep. Dennis Ross, a member of the House GOP whip team, told reporters he planned to vote against the bill mainly because of the "ag issue," but he also cited concerns about not getting more in return for suspending the debt ceiling.

On Tuesday afternoon, sources said that party leaders were engaged in a furious round of back-channel talks with the CBO to ensure that the price tag of the proposal didn't scare away support. By Tuesday afternoon, leaders were trying to ensure that the deal wouldn't cost more than anticipated, a potential problem for fiscal conservatives.

Many Republicans, however, were still reserving judgment -- particularly since the bill was proposed shortly before midnight and could be voted on right before Boehner officially hands the speaker's gavel over to Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wisconsin.

Rep. Tom Rooney, R-Florida, said his district consists of seniors and farmers -- two groups who are "not going to be ecstatic about some of the things that are in there." He added, "I'm a little frustrated that we're doing a (whip) check right now because I have no idea."

On both sides of the Capitol, lawmakers were frustrated about the process of being forced to capitulate on a key concession -- raising the debt ceiling -- without more time for debate.

Wisconsin Republican Sen. Ron Johnson called the process "disgusting" and threatened to vote against it.

Rep. John Shimkus, R-Illinois, said he was "leaning no" on the deal, pointing to the way leaders crafted the way to pay for it. "There's a crop insurance in there I didn't know about."

ACTION ALERT Contact Your Congressman TODAY!

Jill Whitley — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 18:06:14 GMT

Dear CIPA Member:

We know that many of you have already emailed and called your Congressmen and Senators. However, we have been told by many that the White House and Congressional Leadership regard the issue as closed.

In response, Chairman Conaway and Ranking Member Peterson are circulating a letter that they hope as many House Members as possible will sign onto. The deadline to sign is COB today.

The GOP Committee contact for signing the letter is Chris Heggem (christine.heggem@mail.house.gov) and for Ranking Members Peterson’s team it is Mike Stranz (mike.stranz@mail.house.gov).

Please take a moment to send this letter to your Congressman (NOT senators) urging them to sign.

Thank you.

The CSA Crew

_________________________________

Dear____:

It has come to our attention that the “Bipartisan Budget Agreement of 2015” contains a provision that violates our pledge not to reopen the 2014 Farm Bill and would inflict serious injury on America’s farmers and ranchers at a time when net farm income is projected to be down by 53 percent over the past two years.

Section 201 of the bill is widely expected to end Federal Crop Insurance, which is critical to producers and lenders alike.

Specifically, the provision proposes to reduce rates of return to crop insurance companies from a gross of about 14.5 percent down to a gross of 8.9 percent. However, this does not tell the real story. Since 2011 actual returns to companies have averaged about 5 percent, and factoring in costs, the average returns are much closer to zero. The reduction contained in section 201 would kill private sector delivery which is responsible for the success of Federal Crop Insurance.

Not even two years have passed since we made a commitment with the passage of a bipartisan 5-year farm bill that included $23 billion in savings. The current Bipartisan Budget Agreement of 2015 breaks that promise.

Nobody consulted the Agriculture Committees of Congress when this provision was included in the bill, the details of which were not posted until the early morning hours of Tuesday, October 27. Instead, a reckless provision of devastating consequences was quite literally inserted in a backroom in the middle of the night.

This provision must be removed from the bill. If it is not stripped from the bill, we will have no choice but to work to defeat this measure.

Sincerely,

__________/s/________________ _____________/s/_______________

Chairman K. Michael Conaway Ranking Member Collin Peterson

ACTION ALERT Proposed Cuts to Crop Insurance

Jill Whitley — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 17:14:57 GMT

Last night we reported to you that crop insurance cuts were going to be included in a bill to raise the debt ceiling and also to establish a two year budget governing appropriations bills. We just were not sure what the cuts would look like.

Late last night, the cuts were made public. In short, the provision in the bill would require a renegotiation of the Standard Reinsurance Agreement (SRA) – the contract between companies and the government – that would result in a cap on the rate of return equal to 8.9 percent. Keep in mind that we are told the current rate of return is about 14.5 percent gross and that this works out to be about 5 to 6 percent net. Further keep in mind that companies have already been selling out and more have been reported as considering doing so.

All of you know that crop insurance muddled along from 1936 until 1980 when the private sector took over. Since then, with private sector delivery, crop insurance has taken off. The introduction of revenue policies in the mid-1990s and the 2000 crop insurance bill helped make crop insurance what it is today. The SRA of 2011 hit private sector delivery hard. At the time, USDA projected $6 billion in cuts. These cuts came after about $6 billion in cuts under the 2008 Farm Bill.

Make no mistake, the cuts contained in the debt ceiling/budget agreement will kill Federal Crop Insurance.

The provision is said to save $3 billion. We do not know if this figure is accurate. But, rather we would note two things.

First, crop insurance has already been cut. And the Farm Bill was just cut to the tune of $23 billion. When this two year budget agreement wears off, are we to expect another round of cuts?

Second, as angry as we are that they would come after crop insurance like this, we are more angry that they chose to go around the Ag Committees and choose the most devastating cuts they could think of. The Ag Committees could come up with $3 billion in savings that are not reckless and dangerous if they had to. There would be pain but they could do it more carefully. However, the White House and OMB chose this cut specifically, pressed for it, and it was accepted.

The bill has been filed and is expected to be voted on tomorrow. That gives us today to yell like we’ve never yelled before. Everyone receiving this email needs to call their senators and their congressman and let them know in plain terms that by voting for this bill they are killing federal crop insurance.

We recommend urging them to speak to their Leadership and urge that the provision be stripped out of the bill. At bare minimum, the provision must be stripped out and replaced with responsible savings developed by the Agriculture Committees. If the provision is not stripped out, we would urge you to call on your congressman and senators to oppose the bill and work for its defeat.

Again, given the timing, we would urge that you contact the Agriculture LA by email by: going to http://capwiz.com/yo-demo/dbq/officials/. Enter the Congressman or Senator's name in the space provided and click go to find the Member. Then click on the staff tab to identify the Agriculture LA. The email format for House staffers is: firstname.lastname@mail.house.gov. For Senate staff it is firstname_lastname@senatorslastname.senate.gov, for example John Doe in Senator Smith’s office would be John_Doe@Smith.Senate.gov. We would also urge that you call the main telephone line and leave a similar message.

In all of the years we have worked in Washington, we have never seen a more reckless move…and that is truly saying something.

Please contact us with questions.

The CSA Crew

Chairman Combest Pens Hill Column

Jill Whitley — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 15:28:17 GMT

Click here for Chairman Combest's Column titled "China's Market Manipulations Nothing New to America's Farmers."

CIPA Represented at Minnesota Crop Insurance Conference

Jill Whitley — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 14:18:14 GMT

On September 15th, Tom Sell presented at the Minnesota Crop Insurance Conference at the Verison Wireless Center in Mankato, Minnesota. The Minnesota Crop Insurance Conference is one of the largest gatherings of crop insurance agents in the Midwest. Attendees will hear outstanding speakers address topics directly relevant to crop insurance agents and interact with over 650 other crop insurance agents. Tom will be providing the Washington update, hitting themes familiar to CIPA agents. You can see an old CIPA 1-pager with updated numbers that will be used here.

Secretary Vilsack Testifies Before House Agriculture Committee

Jill Whitley — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 15:02:37 GMT

On Wednesday, July 22nd, the House Agriculture Committee hosted Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack for an oversight hearing over a variety of issues. Avian Influenza was a hot topic. Ranking Member Collin Peterson (D-MN) commended Secretary Vilsack, saying the USDA’s handling of the issue “has helped restore confidence” within the industry. Other issues that were covered included the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) information technology (MIDAS) project and the EPA’s WOTUS Rule. Secretary Vilsack said the EPA’s new WOTUS rule would likely result in “a lot of litigation and concern.” Read more about the hearing from the Hagstrom Report and AgriPulse.

EWG Crop Insurance Amendments Failed

Jill Whitley — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 15:57:15 GMT

The two crop insurance amendments that were trotted out by the EWG — Rep. Pingree (D-ME) amendment to apply a $750,000 means test; and Rep. DeLauro (D-CT) amendment to require publication of insurance records — both failed by voice vote. An anti-sugar amendment was discussed and withdrawn. And an anti-cotton amendment also failed. In addition to your calls, CIPA sent a letter on these matters which you can read here.

CIPA Sends Letter To Appropriations Member Offices Opposing Amendments To the Agriculture Appropriations Bill

Jill Whitley — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 13:43:19 GMT

Click here to view CIPA's letter sent to Appropriations Member offices opposing amendments to the Agriculture Appropriations Bill.

ACTION ALERT - Agriculture Appropriations Markup Tomorrow (July 8, 2015)

Jill Whitley — Tue, 07 Jul 2015 20:00:50 GMT

Congress is right back into the swing of things, with only 4 weeks of work before the August recess.

As noted before the break, the draft Agriculture Appropriations bill will be considered by the Full Committee tomorrow at 10:15 eastern.

This is always an opportunity for opponents of agriculture to trot their amendments, and this year appears to be no exception.

As of now, we are hearing from Committee staff that they are expecting 3 harmful amendments to crop insurance. They are:

Pingree AGI limits. This will limit availability to crop insurance based on AGI in excess of $750K.
DeLauro disclosure of individual farmer premium assistance on an individual farmer basis (EWG subsidy database for crop insurance).
Removal of the base language on conservation compliance (providing relief on penalty only for 2016) - no sponsor yet.

Members of the Full Appropriations Committee are printed below. If you have connections to any of these members (constituent or otherwise), please use them to contact and urge them to stand by our Nation's farmers, and vote against any anti-crop insurance amendments or other amendments that would undermine the important purposes of the Farm Bill (note: there may be an anti-sugar amendment; and another that would impede the marketing of cotton).

If you need contact information for any of these offices, go to http://yo-demo.capwiz.com/yo-demo/directory/congdir.tt. Enter the Congressman’s name in the space provided and click go to find the Member. Then click on the staff tab to identify the Agriculture LA. Then click on the contact tab to learn the Congressman’s telephone number. You may call that number and ask for the Agriculture LA by name or you may also email the Agriculture LA using this email format: firstname.lastname@mail.house.gov.

If you want or need more detail or back-up on any of these issues, just call us.

There are other issues we will want to catch up with you on, but this item takes precedence.

Thanks in advance for taking action.
Sincerely,
Tom Sell
Cell: (806) 535-0093
DC office: (202) 544-5873

Committee Members

Republicans

Harold Rogers, Kentucky, Chairman
Rodney P. Frelinghuysen, New Jersey
Robert B. Aderholt, Alabama
Kay Granger, Texas
Michael K. Simpson, Idaho
John Abney Culberson, Texas
Ander Crenshaw, Florida
John R. Carter, Texas
Ken Calvert, California
Tom Cole, Oklahoma
Mario Diaz-Balart, Florida
Charles W. Dent, Pennsylvania
Tom Graves, Georgia
Kevin Yoder, Kansas
Steve Womack, Arkansas
Jeff Fortenberry, Nebraska
Tom Rooney, Florida
Chuck Fleischmann, Tennessee
Jaime Herrera Beutler, Washington
David Joyce, Ohio
David Valadao, California
Andy Harris, MD, Maryland
Martha Roby, Alabama
Mark Amodei, Nevada
Chris Stewart, Utah
Scott Rigell, Virginia
David Jolly, Florida
David Young, Iowa
Evan Jenkins, West Virginia
Steven Palazzo, Mississippi

Democrats

Nita M. Lowey, New York
Marcy Kaptur, Ohio
Peter J. Visclosky, Indiana
José E. Serrano, New York
Rosa L. DeLauro, Connecticut
David E. Price, North Carolina
Lucille Roybal-Allard, California
Sam Farr, California
Chaka Fattah, Pennsylvania
Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., Georgia
Barbara Lee, California
Michael M. Honda, California
Betty McCollum, Minnesota
Steve Israel, New York
Tim Ryan, Ohio
C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, Maryland
Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Florida
Henry Cuellar, Texas
Chellie Pingree, Maine
Mike Quigley, Illinois
Derek Kilmer, Washington

Op-Ed Penned by Chairman Combest Titled "The EPA's Big Land Grab" Published In The Hill Today

Jill Whitley — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 15:25:41 GMT

We wanted to bring to your attention another op-ed penned by Chairman Combest that was published online at The Hill today. The article highlights what we consider to be a terrible misallocation of resources by libertarian groups who instead of fighting for something so basic as private property rights in the light of a huge land grab by the EPA, have instead said they will focus their energy on tearing down agriculture policy.

The op-ed can be viewed here: http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/energy-environment/246408-the-epas-big-land-grab. Please take some time to read and comment — and if you like it email, Facebook, and tweet to help promote and drive traffic to the article. Not only does it spread an important message, but also it helps ensure The Hill will continue to run posts defending agriculture.

CIPA Official Conservation Compliance Comments

Jill Whitley — Wed, 24 Jun 2015 16:04:17 GMT

Tuesday, June 23rd was the day that comments on the Interim Final Rule on "Conservation Compliance" were due. CIPA submitted additional comments (available here) to supplement the group letter that was sent earlier this month (available here).

In this new comment, we ask for 3 basic accommodations: (1) that FSA and RMA and NRCS reconcile their lists quickly and provide certainty as to who is in and who is out; (2) that the rule be altered to allow producers to restore eligibility if they come into compliance before a relevant SCD; and (3) that producers be allowed to alter or drop coverage if they are notified they are not in compliance after SCD. We touch on other themes that support these 3 requests, but that is the essence.

CIPA Washington DC Fly-In

Jill Whitley — Mon, 22 Jun 2015 20:48:45 GMT

We had a great week in DC with a great small group. We had 14 CIPA members from some strategic regions across the country covering some significant ground, waving the banner for crop insurance generally, and speaking to issues of concern on the Hill right now.

We had more than 60 appointments with Members of the House and Senate and their staff, along with some key USDA, RMA, and FSA officials. As you can see from the picture below, even by the third day, the group was holding up pretty well. This picture was taken on the balcony of the House Agriculture Committee with Chairman Mike Conaway (R-TX) with the Capitol (under restoration) in the background.

Among the many issues discussed, CIPA fly-in participants expressed concern over conservation compliance and were very pleased to hear first-hand about the provision in the Agriculture Appropriations bill that would suspend any penalties, providing producers until June 30, 2016 to come into compliance while also offering USDA more time to get the rule right. This provision is not yet law, as it must still be agreed to by our Senate and the President. But it is good for producers, good for crop insurance, and good for the proponents of this provision because the latter should want a smooth rollout.

Our message was fairly simple. You may read our 1-page leave behind here. But, most importantly, we built and cultivated some relationships that will help us when we join in battle next time.

Commodities Exchange Act (CEA) Reauthorization Passes House, Senate Introduces Bill To Ensure CEA Rules Work

Jill Whitley — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 14:46:27 GMT

The House of Representatives passed legislation on Tuesday, June 9th to reauthorize the CEA through 2019. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway (R-TX) said the bill “provides relief from unnecessary red tape for the businesses that make things in our country.” On Thursday, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS) and Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) introduced bipartisan legislation that would ensure farmers and ranchers are not jeopardized by any reinterpretations of CEA regulations. The Senate Agriculture Committee plans to incorporate this legislation into a larger CEA reauthorization package later this year. Congress last passed a CEA reauthorization during the 2008 Farm Bill, but the authorization expired in 2013. Read more from The Hill and here.

House Agriculture Committee Completes Reauthorization Work Ahead Of Schedule

Jill Whitley — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 14:44:35 GMT

On Tuesday, June 9th, the House of Representatives passed three agricultural measures by voice vote. Passage of the Mandatory Price Reporting Act, the U.S. Grain Standards Reauthorization Act, and the National Forest Foundation Reauthorization Act completes the House Agriculture Committee’s reauthorization work for the year. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway’ (R-TX) first goal as Chairman was to complete all of the Committee’s reauthorization work in a timely way. He said, "I am pleased to have the support of my colleagues on these bills that are essential to the agriculture industry. This completes our work in cleaning up the books of the House Agriculture Committee, addressing every item on the Congressional Budget Office's list of unauthorized appropriations under the Committee's jurisdiction." Read more from Farm Futures.

Conservation Compliance Deadline - June 1

Jill Whitley — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 20:24:39 GMT

The USDA held a briefing to update stakeholders on changes made to the Conservation Compliance Interim Final Rule which will be published in the Federal Register on April 20th and should be posted to this page on RMA’s website April 16th. A document that was handed out at the briefing detailing the changes made may be viewed here. Remember, in order to participate in Federal Crop Insurance, all producers and qualifying affiliated persons must have an AD-1026 on file with FSA by June 1, 2015.

CIPA Comments on Prevented Planting Policy Changes

Jill Whitley — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 18:48:04 GMT

Click on this link to view CIPA's comments to RMA regarding the proposed changes to Prevented Planting Policy Provisions and Payment Factors.

Crop Insurance 101 Forums

Jill Whitley — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 20:59:44 GMT

The Senate Ag Committee and the House Ag Committee have hosted Crop Insurance 101 forums for staff, giving the industry an opportunity to provide perspective on budget and related matters. The Crop Insurance Working Group has prepared 4 one-pagers addressing controversial topics. They are good sources of information and will remain available on the Policy Resources section of our website which members can access here. Tom Sell (CIPA) presented for the agent sector, along with Keith Collins (NCIS) giving historical overview, Christy Seyfert (RCIS) brought the company perspective, and Sam Willett (NCGA) presented from the grower perspective.

Combest Op Ed - Ag Budget

Jill Whitley — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 20:53:00 GMT

To provide some important perspective from the Agriculture sector, we were fortunate The Hill newspaper in DC (www.thehill.com, one of the most read political news sources) decided to publish an op-ed by Mr. Combest which is available at this link: Combest Op Ed — Ag Budget.

The piece lays important groundwork for why agriculture should be exempt from further cuts as this process moves forward. We would encourage you to read it by going to the link, and comment on it (these comment sections are typically dominated by whackos, but it is always good to get some positive reinforcement mixed in . . . a simple "well put — the situation in rural economies is tough right now" or something along those lines would be good).

We would also encourage you to forward it along, or post it to Twitter or Facebook if you operate in the social media world.

As always, we appreciate your support in standing up for agriculture.

Farm Bill Decision Aid Webinars

Thu, 06 Nov 2014 23:27:51 GMT

CIPA hosted a series of two webinars by the creators of the web tools designed to aid producers in making their risk management decisions under the 2014 Farm Bill. This was a great opportunity for CIPA members and their staff to get a full preview of the features of these tools so that they can use them to help their clients make the best choices for their risk management portfolio. If you missed the webinar, or would like to view it again they can be accessed at the links below. Special thanks to Dr. Joe Outlaw with Texas A&M University and Jonathan Coppess with the University of Illinois for being willing to make special presentations for CIPA.

Recordings of the two webinars can be found in the policy resources section of the members area.

2014 CIPA Fall Meeting

Tue, 28 Oct 2014 22:21:32 GMT

Thank you to all who attended the CIPA Fall Meeting in Nashville, TN October 26-28! The meeting was a huge success and was our most widely attended meeting yet with over 140 CIPA members, sponsors, and guests. Attendees heard from an all star line up of speakers which included RMA Associate Administrator Michael Alston, FFAS Deputy Undersecretary Karis Gutter, political prognosticator and House Editor of the Cook Political Report David Wasserman, among many others. Also, we were very honored to have rising star Congressman Stephen Fincher of Tennessee speak at the Monday luncheon.

CIPA members can view the agenda and presentations in the policy resources section of the members area.

Be on the lookout for more information about the Fall 2015 meeting which I am sure will be another excellent event.

2014 CIPA Annual Membership Meeting

Mon, 12 May 2014 17:56:20 GMT

Thank you to everyone who attended the 2014 CIPA Annual Membership Meeting held on May 5-6 in Kansas City, Missouri. We had over 100 attendees at the meeting, making it one of our most well attended meetings to date.

At the general session we had a number of great speakers, including economists Dr. Art Barnaby and Dr. Joe Outlaw, Tim Hoffmann with RMA, and NCIS President Dr. Tom Zacharias. CIPA members may find their presentations in the Policy Resources area of the CIPA website.

The Bill Hanson, CIPA, Memorial Scholarship presentation was a particularly special moment of the meeting as Carol Hanson made the drive from Manhattan to join us. Over $27,000 has been raised for the scholarship to date to go towards scholarships in honor of Bill. If you would like to make a contribution, instructions are provided under the Scholarship tab of the CIPA website.

The CIPA PAC event at the meeting was a huge success. Between the dinner, auction and other donations, we brought in over $65,000 in contributions for the PAC! This far and away eclipsed our total from our inaugural event in 2013. Our goal is to have a $100K PAC this year, and while we are well on our way to reaching that goal, we still need everyone to pitch in. Thank you to everyone who has donated so far.

The CIPA Fall Membership Meeting will be held in Nashville, Tennessee on October 26-28. If you are interested in attending the meeting and are not a member of CIPA, visit the CIPA membership page for more information about joining or contact us at 202-544-5873.

CIPA Hosts Farm Bill Webinar Series

Thu, 24 Apr 2014 15:20:47 GMT

CIPA agents take pride in being among the most informed agents in the country on issues related to Federal Crop Insurance. So it was no surprise that such a large number of agents joined us for the Farm Bill webinar series that included presentations tailored towards the Midwest, South, and Western/Great Plains regions.

The new policies and improvements made to Federal Crop Insurance in the 2014 Farm Bill serve only as further proof that crop insurance has become the most vital risk management tool to the vast majority of farmers across the nation. CIPA firmly believes that private sector delivery is a primary driver of the success of crop insurance and that agents will continue to be on the forefront of offering risk management advice to their farmer clients.

The presentations and audio recordings of the call are available to CIPA members and are posted on the Policy Resources in the Members Area of the website. If you are a CIPA member and need to set or reset your password, you may do so here.

CIPA Grateful for Farm Bill Passage

Tue, 04 Feb 2014 22:00:00 GMT

Crop Insurance Professionals Association is greatly appreciative of the passage of the 2014 Farm Bill. CIPA is especially grateful of the hard work and perseverance of Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK), Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Ranking Member Collin Peterson (D-MN), and Ranking Member Thad Cochran (R-MS), and their respective staffs. Crop insurance is the premier risk management tool for the majority of farmers today, and the Agricultural Act of 2014 builds on and improves the policy.

CIPA Urges Congress to Pass Farm Bill

Tue, 28 Jan 2014 18:46:18 GMT

In a letter signed by the entire Board of Directors, CIPA urged Congress to pass the 2014 Farm Bill conference report. The legislation achieves the number one ask of crop insurance agents and our farmer clients - do no harm to crop insurance.

CIPA especially commends Chairman Frank Lucas, Ranking Member Collin Peterson, Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, and Ranking Member Thad Cochran for their tireless work on behalf of all of American agriculture.

You may find a copy of the letter here.

2013 CIPA Fall Membership Meeting

Wed, 06 Nov 2013 16:54:18 GMT

The 2013 CIPA Fall Membership Meeting held in Charleston, South Carolina was a great success. The meeting was attended by a record number of agents, AIP representatives, industry leaders and guests. Speakers at the General Session included RMA Administrator Brandon Willis, David Wasserman with The Cook Political Report, Jim Wiesemeyer with Informa Economics, Phillip Hayes with Northbridge Communications, Tom Zacharias with National Crop Insurance Services, House and Senate Agriculture Committee staff, and South Carolina producers.

Additionally, the more focused breakout sessions, such as the Legislative Affairs and Regulatory Affairs Committee meetings and the Data & Technology Roundtable Discussion, were informational and productive. Administrator Willis was able to attend both committee meetings.

If you would like to be involved in CIPA or need more information about membership, please fill out the online contact form or call 202-544-5873.

Farm Policy Facts & NCIS Respond to Attacks

Fri, 13 Sep 2013 21:10:21 GMT

In a series of one-sided articles published this week, Bloomberg News took direct aim at crop insurance. While it is disappointing to see reporters basically regurgitate EWG talking points and treat them as fact, we have seen these arguments from the critics before. We’ve beaten them back in the past and will beat them again. National Crop Insurance Services (NCIS) and Farm Policy Facts did nice jobs issuing rebuttals to the articles. The articles and responses are linked to below.

CIPA Urges House to Pass Farm Bill

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:46:20 GMT

Crop Insurance Professionals Association signed two letters this week that were circulated on Capitol Hill. The first letter CIPA signed alongside 194 other commodity and crop insurance organizations advocates Members of the House of Representatives to vote in favor of the Farm Bill passed out of the House Committee on Agriculture. CIPA also signed a letter requesting Congressmen to oppose all amendments to the Farm Bill that will be harmful to crop insurance.

Please feel free to circulate the letters linked to above to your Representative with notes telling them crop insurance is important to their constituents.

CIPA Signs Letter Sent to Congress

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:15:42 GMT

CIPA signed on to a letter expressing support for crop insurance and opposition to any action that would “discourage producer participation or undermine private sector delivery.” The letter was sent to every Senator and Representative in Congress. Alongside CIPA, a strong showing of commodity groups – over 40 total – signed on to the letter proving broad support of Federal Crop Insurance.

Read the letter sent to the House and Senate.

New Video Ridicules Critics' Absurd Claims

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 21:04:47 GMT

National Crop Insurance Services released an outstanding video featuring farmers, agents, and adjusters all reacting to the critics’ claims that “farmers are praying for a drought” so they can collect on crop insurance, and that they are “laughing all the way to the bank.” Farm Policy Facts (FPF) is helping circulate the video and press release. Please help circulate the video to your farmer clients, fellow agents, family and friends.

CIPA Members Meet in Indian Wells

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 16:10:11 GMT

Another successful membership meeting is in the books. CIPA members met Monday afternoon in Indian Wells, California in conjunction with the Annual Industry Convention. The meeting was led off by Tom Sell of Combest, Sell & Associates who gave a Washington D.C. report. Following Tom’s presentation, Brandon Willis, Acting Administrator of RMA, hosted a roundtable discussion with CIPA members to discuss future challenges and opportunities for Federal Crop Insurance.

For information on joining CIPA, please visit the membership page or contact us at 202.544.5873.

Apply for CIPA Membership Today

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 15:14:52 GMT

Thinking about joining Crop Insurance Professionals Association?

CIPA represents independent crop insurance agents from across the country on legislative and regulatory affairs in Washington D.C., in addition to providing a forum for the top agents in the nation to network with each other and exchange information and ideas. CIPA members are kept up-to-date on the latest issues facing crop insurance by the leadership team, which is led by Larry Combest, former Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and principle author of the 2000 Ag Risk Protection Act (ARPA) and the 2002 Farm Bill.

You can learn more and apply for membership here on our website. You may also refer to our membership factsheet for more information.

CIPA Standard

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 21:33:04 GMT

Recently all CIPA Supporting Members received the biannual newsletter, CIPA Standard, a 6-page formatted document containing CIPA news and activities reports, a fall farm bill prognostication and update, and CIPA PAC information. To receive your copy of CIPA Standard, please join CIPA as a Supporting Member for the nominal annual fee of $10.

Supporting Membership is for anyone whose livelihoods are affected by crop insurance. In addition to receiving the newsletter, Supporting Members are granted access to additional resources on the website and allowed to contribute to the CIPA PAC.

Please feel free to contact us at 202.544.5873 with any questions.

New York Times Letter to the Editor

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 16:49:06 GMT

A Letter to the Editor by CIPA Board Member, Jason Williamson of Payne, Ohio, was recently published in the New York Times in response to an editorial the newspaper ran titled, "Drought and the Farm Bills." Among other things, the article claimed crop insurance “guaranteed profits” for farmers. You can read Jason’s response below:

To the Editor:

Your July 25 editorial “Drought and the Farm Bills” implies that farmers are somehow purchasing crop insurance policies as a way to get rich. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Crop insurance has become the chief risk management tool for farmers for one simple reason: It works. Farmers purchase policies and can receive claims only for documented losses.

As you noted, most of the United States is locked in a severe drought this year. Crop losses may be deep, and no crop insurance indemnity will be enough to make any of these farmers whole again. The indemnity will allow those who purchased policies to get back on their feet and farm yet another day.

Do you think that drivers who purchase car insurance are secretly hoping for a car wreck to get a check from the insurance company? It’s an absurd idea. You purchase insurance for protection, not to make a buck.

As a crop insurance agent, I can tell you that there is nothing farmers want more than a bountiful harvest. But if Mother Nature does not cooperate, and it looks as if she won’t this year, farmers will need crop insurance as a backup plan.

JASON WILLIAMSON

Payne, Ohio, July 27, 2012

CIPA Sends Letter of Support for House Farm Bill

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 23:01:15 GMT

After the release of the House farm bill last week, CIPA joined with Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America (Big I), and the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) in sending a letter to Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK) and Ranking Member Collin Peterson (D-MN) expressing support for the bill. In the letter CIPA commends Mr. Lucas and Mr. Peterson for constructing a “bipartisan farm bill that honors the request of producers to do no harm to Federal Crop Insurance.” The letter goes on to express support for numerous aspects of the bill. You can read the entire letter here.

Omaha World Herald Op-ed

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 22:53:10 GMT

Quentin Bowen, a corn and soybean farmer from Humboldt, Nebraska, penned an op-ed for the Omaha World Herald, in which he takes the false assertions regularly made by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) head on:

"The EWG is skilled in information manipulation and persuasion, and it has been at the forefront of eliminating much of farm policy in recent years. Ironically, while the United States has been taking tools away from its farmers as a result, our biggest foreign competitors - some of the worst environmental offenders on the planet - have been ratcheting up subsidization levels. The EWG hasn't seemed to care."

Mr. Bowen goes on to clearly articulate why crop insurance is essential for farmers like himself in managing their unique risks, and why anti-crop insurance amendments being considered in the Senate farm bill debate should be defeated.

Please find the entire article here.

Ruth Gerdes Testifies on Behalf of CIPA

Mon, 21 May 2012 15:15:47 GMT

Ruth Gerdes, CIPA Member and Regulatory Affairs Committee Chair from Auburn, Nebraska, testified at the House Agriculture Committee on Thursday, May 17, 2012. Ruth told the committee her own personal history with crop insurance – how her family almost lost their farm in the 1980’s because they had been sold the wrong crop insurance coverage – and how that spurred her into becoming an agent. She vowed to never let what happen to her family happen again to them or their neighbors, and ever since she has been dedicated to building and improving Federal Crop Insurance into the success story it is today.

The screen shot below is linked to the House Agriculture Committee website, where a video of the hearing can be found. Ruth was on the fourth panel of the hearing and comes on the video at the 1 hour 45 minute mark.

You can also read Ruth's written testimony.

2011 Southwest Case Study

Tue, 15 May 2012 13:45:21 GMT

National Crop Insurance Services made public today a video discussing the Texas drought and how crop insurance helped farmers and ranchers pick up the pieces after the disaster. The video features a grower and a banker from the state. Please share the video link with anyone who might benefit from watching it – it truly does speak to the value of crop insurance.

Please find the video linked here.

Month by Month Work of an Agent

Mon, 14 May 2012 13:43:17 GMT

The number one goal of a crop insurance agent is to put the farmer first. Ruth Gerdes, farmer and crop insurance agent from Auburn, Nebraska knows this as well as anyone. Here you will find a document Ruth put together that details the work the Auburn Agency does on a month by month basis over the course of a year. This is the process Ruth and her team goes through for each and every client, taking special care to fully educate them on their risk management options available.

Find the month by month description of the work done by a crop insurance agent here.

Crop Insurance State Factsheets

Mon, 14 May 2012 13:20:07 GMT

See the importance of Crop Insurance to your state by clicking on the linked factsheet. Or view a summary of the entire United States. If you are interested in a state that is not listed, please feel free to contact us at judd@combest-sell.com.

State factsheets: Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Vermont.

Crop Insurance 101

Tue, 01 May 2012 15:44:16 GMT

National Crop Insurance Services created the following educational video featuring Tom Zacharias, President of NCIS. The short video titled “Crop Insurance 101” consists of Mr. Zacharias explaining how Federal Crop Insurance works using a white board. We hope you enjoy.

Please find the video linked here.

Welcome to the New CIPA Website!

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 16:43:28 GMT

We are thrilled to welcome you to the new CIPA site, now primarily hosted at www.cipatoday.com.

The site offers a variety of resources both to members and the public. Please take advantage of the educational information available, and check back often for news and updates.

Some highlights of the new site include:

The ability to join CIPA online as a Supporting Member for only $10. For more information about CIPA membership levels, click here.
Information about CIPA events and a frequently updated calendar.
The resource section for CIPA members includes business and policy resources, member-controlled profile pages and material about the CIPA Political Action Committee.
Full and Associate Members can access the Member Directory, upload their logo and update email preferences, access current and archived newsletters in one convenient location and see event registration and teleconference information.

Please take advantage of this new site, and let us know if you encounter any problems by emailing judd@combest-sell.com.

What It Will Take To Pass a Farm Bill

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:49:29 GMT

By Larry Combest

www.agri-pulse.com

Growing up and working on my own family farm during hard times, and devoting much of my adult life to U.S. agriculture, it is a source of pride that I was privileged to help put in place the kind of farm policies that pulled the sector out of crisis and have contributed to a strong 10-year run for U.S. agriculture. What follows are what I consider to be some essential elements to keeping it going and continuing to lead economic recovery, putting Americans back to work, and feeding a hungry world.

First, the agriculture community must unite, on and off Capitol Hill, and work together to pass a strong, consensus-based Farm Bill in 2012. American agriculture needs the certainty of a 5-year Farm Bill, and unity is not optional if we are to get there.

Fortunately, I believe this is eminently doable. Although there are many different plans and details, there are common themes that reflect the following principles.

The 2012 Farm Bill should: (1) do no harm to crop insurance; (2) not shoe-horn a dynamic private sector into a one-sized-fits-all federal program, but give producers the opportunity to make their own choices based on what is right for their farms; (3) provide producers real market loss protection that is relevant to today’s risk profile and would kick in when needed; and (4) not tie producers up in knots with more bureaucratic rules that stifle innovation and competitiveness.

Do Not Harm Crop Insurance.

Fortunately, on the issue of crop insurance, virtually all in the farm community have rejected proposals that directly harm this vitally important risk management tool, opposing calls by a few for more cuts, for government-run delivery, or for undermining individual coverage by subordinating that coverage to group risk plans.

But, what we learned from the 2011 Farm Bill effort is that the host of revenue proposals do have some interaction with crop insurance. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO), for instance, apparently assumes billions of dollars in indirect cuts to crop insurance due to this interaction. Thankfully, in working to address this problem, Senator Roberts (R-KS), Chairman Lucas (R-OK), Chairwoman Stabenow (D-MI), and Rep. Peterson (D-MN) wisely insisted on reinvesting these savings back into crop insurance to make it better for producers.

There is a legitimate interest motivating revenue proposals and that is to help producers reduce deductibles. But, it is important that nothing be done to injure crop insurance which so many producers have urged Washington to protect, and which Rep. Peterson has time and again warned may be all producers are left with one day. In carefully threading this needle, the objective must be to meet the goal of revenue proposals - i.e., closing deductibles - without duplicating what crop insurance already does so well.

A uniform revenue proposal attempting to accomplish this difficult balancing act when deductibles vary so widely by state is met with a serious challenge. One revenue band of protection applicable to all states leaves producers with shallower or deeper deductibles both exposed. One possible solution to reconcile the competing goals presented is to allow producers to purchase a supplemental coverage option, essentially an enhanced GRIP or GRP policy, on top of their individual crop insurance coverage. This approach would allow producers to select the additional coverage that they need without duplicating what their individual policy already covers. Via crop insurance, higher levels of coverage meant to address shallower losses would be very defensible in that producers would pay for this additional coverage. This cheaper route to revenue protection might also allow any savings to be dedicated to helping producers buy higher individual level coverage, a benefit to producers in states with deeper deductibles.

The bottom line here is there needs to be a thorough analysis of plans designed to close deductibles in order to ensure this goal is met effectively for producers in each state while not harming crop insurance. If reinvesting any savings from the interaction between the two would still harm crop insurance, albeit indirectly, producers and policymakers need to be informed of this. Crop insurance has not ascended to such vital importance to so many producers over the past 10 years by accident. It is the product of good policy which makes a menu of risk management options available to producers that are tailored to producer needs and delivered by a private sector workforce of agents and companies in a manner that has taken crop insurance from a government run program that barely limped along for more than 40 years to the success story it is today. This trajectory needs to continue in order to meet the needs of all crops and all regions.

Allow Producers a Choice.

On the issue of producer choice, affording producers the ability to choose a risk management tool in the Farm Bill shows government’s respect for a diverse and dynamic private sector. Most revenue proposals are designed to address deductibles but not deep price losses, while price-based protection plans are designed to address systemic, deep price losses but not deductibles. A choice between these options allows producers something basic: the ability to connect the most relevant policy to their most significant perils. Put into perspective, offering snow tires to everyone in the country has a different value to someone in Alaska verses someone in the Florida Keys.

The Environmental Working Group and Bruce Babcock at Iowa State, on some days, advocate government delivery of crop insurance or at least the assumption by the Farm Bill of some duties now performed by crop insurance, while, on other days, they seem to advocate the elimination of both policies altogether. Perhaps they see one as naturally leading to the other or at least an opportunity to attach a bunch of strings. Protecting crop insurance and providing a producer the choice of a price-based protection option would help us to avoid any blind alley they would take us down by working to keep the Farm Bill out of the crop insurance business.

There are good reasons for both revenue protection and price-based protection. But since the latter is often singled out for criticism, I think it is important to come to its defense. The approach is simple, bankable, and defensible. Producers and lenders understand it. It kicks in when needed, and backs off when it is not. It is a smart, conservative use of limited resources.

While some have suggested that this option might create unforeseen budget exposure in times of prolonged low prices, in its scorekeeping CBO takes the probability of this happening into account and builds it into its cost estimates. Although the cost estimates from the 2011 Farm Bill have not been made public, I would venture to guess that the price-based protection option was the considerably less expensive of the two. This is not an incrimination of the revenue option, but simply an exoneration of the price-based option against an unfounded claim.

But there are two other important points here that must be stressed. First, what is more fiscally responsible: anticipating prolonged periods of low prices and providing price protection that is adequate to handle the situation, or being forced down the road to choose between a farm financial crisis and emergency ad hoc spending because farm policy came unprepared? Second, although price protection may cost more in periods of prolonged low prices, this form of farm policy can also cost very little as has been demonstrated over the past decade where it has been consistently under budget.

Failing to Provide Real Market Loss Protection Will Fail Farmers.

Having been involved now with going on seven Farm Bills at one level or another, whether it pertains to a revenue plan or a price plan, I firmly believe that real price protection is the CARFAX of Farm Bills. If the Farm Bill you are thinking about buying is not equipped with real price protection, do not just walk away. Run. It may be shiny and new on the outside, but there is sawdust in the engine.

As Secretary Vilsack alluded to in an interview in Iowa during a visit to that State by the Vice President of China, world markets can change overnight. Let me give you one example. In 1997, the previous 5-year Olympic average price for corn was $2.51 per bushel. 5 years later, it fell 23.5% to $1.92, and it would not climb back to the 1997 or 1998 levels until 10 years later, in 2008. The current Olympic average price for corn is $3.93. It will climb again for 2012, but all I suggest is that we ought to be prepared if a prolonged drop in prices occurs.

As vitally important as crop insurance is and as understandable as is the goal of revenue plans, a price-based protection option offers producers what neither of the former were designed to do: real price protection in times of multiple year low prices, the most basic function of any Farm Bill. Yes, crop insurance does and revenue proposals may help mitigate price volatility within a year, but neither is designed to address low prices stretching multiple years. Instead, their protection levels travel down with prices as I laid out in the example above.

Nonetheless, to its authors’ great credit, real price protection did come standard under both the revenue and price options provided in the 2011 Farm Bill proposal. But, of the revenue plans currently being floated, only one attempts to deal with the serious problem of omitting price protection and, unfortunately, it, too, falls short since it would not adequately respond to depressed prices over multiple years because the price protection provided is set so low that it would not kick in until it was too late. But, here, too, credit belongs to the author for recognizing the need and working toward it.

To sum up on this point, if Washington wants to sell producers on a policy that provides no real price protection, then Washington should look producers in the eye and tell them that, that there will be no effective net under producers if and when the bottom falls out. Having traveled around the country, visiting producers from all regions growing all kinds of crops, I can tell you, rank and file producers do not understand this important point and they will understand it even less when prices tank. Whether it is revenue or price-based policy, there needs to be real price protection.

Criticism Based on Bad Analysis.

One of the criticisms leveled against the 2011 Farm Bill was that price protection used under the revenue and price-based protection options were established at levels that would influence planting decisions. But experts disagree. Analysis indicates little influence on acreage planted to major row crops under either plan if prices remain steady.

Specifically relating to the price-based option which came under the heaviest attack in this regard, even if every producer in the country elected this option (not likely), and prices declined even by the large percentage drop experienced in the late 1990s, the influence on plantings would be infinitesimal, a fraction of 1%. But, if this negligible influence remains a concern, there is an easy answer: move from planted acres to some updated historical base for revenue and price-based option.

Another criticism of the 2011 Farm Bill was its potential to increase WTO exposure. For instance, one farm group’s January 2, 2012 analysis projected that by the fifth year, the bill would have meant a “near 20 percent likelihood that payments would exceed the WTO limit.” But, a subsequent correction made by the same group, issued a couple weeks later, downgraded that risk to “0 percent to 8 percent over the five year period.” Given that the average annual expenditure on the revenue and price-based plans, combined, was, I am told, about $2.7 billion vis-à-vis the WTO limit of $19.1 billion per year, the corrected analysis only confirms what common sense suggests: the 2011 Farm Bill is WTO compliant.

Brazil also critiqued the 2011 Farm Bill for WTO implications, largely taking aim at “shallow loss” revenue programs and the moving away from historical bases toward planted acres. But, given that the annual expenditures under the 2011 Farm Bill’s commodity provisions (revenue and price) are not even half the maximum level that would have been allowed had even the lopsided Doha Round limit of $7.6 billion been imposed, the attention paid by the Brazilians toward the 2011 Farm Bill amounts to a great distraction from a real problem.

The growing egregiousness of Brazilian subsidies, among that of others, highlighted in recent studies published by Texas Tech and DTB & Associates are serious problems that few appear to be doing anything about - other than suiting up daily in sack cloth and ashes to appease Brazil for having any modicum of U.S. farm policy that these same studies report is now funded at record lows. Of course, we find ourselves in this spot due, in part, because of the lingering effects of the outcome of a trade dispute that was based on market conditions of 15 year ago that no longer exist, policies of 15 years ago that no longer exist, and an improvising interpretation of the Uruguay Round agreement that would have made the Warren Court blush. Will there ever be enforcement or is Washington determined to achieve a trade deficit for agriculture, too?”

In a set of charts produced by the same farm group referenced above and published in my friend, Jim Wiesemeyer’s column of February 15, it was suggested that price protection was set so high that had it been in place over the previous 10 years it would have triggered. The obvious response is that the price protection in the 2011 bill was not established to address price and cost conditions of the past 10 years; they were established to address price and cost conditions for the future 5 years. And, as was pointed out in a previous article on the subject, as further evidenced by experts indicating negligible impact on planting, and as plain as day by just sitting down at your kitchen table and doing your own mathematical comparisons, the price protection among the crops provided under the 2011 Farm Bill draft pretty well track the average relationship of price protection among crops over the past 20 years, with some adjustments to account for production cost estimates and what producers are losing under the current bill.

The farm group analysis published February 15 also suggested that corn, soybeans, wheat, and sorghum would all trigger price-based support in 0 of the next 10 years while peanuts and rice would trigger in each of the 10. But, in the corrected WTO analysis prepared by the same group and published just a month earlier, it is suggested that all of the crops mentioned above would trigger price-based support in each of the next 5 years. Well, which is it?

The bottom line is, much like political ads, there is a lot of information out there and often times it seems designed to influence rather than to inform. While neither the revenue nor the price-based protection options proposed in the 2011 Farm Bill are perfect, I do believe both have been unfairly attacked.

Rice has been especially hard hit in these attacks. But, as Blake Gerard, a young producer growing rice in Missouri and Illinois, explains, all that has worked for rice producers today under both the Farm Bill and Crop Insurance is the Direct Payment which is the one thing that is being eliminated, and what was meant to replace this payment under the 2011 Farm Bill was $13.98 x .85 x countercyclical payment yields = $8.32, an amount that is well below any rice producer’s cost of production. Rice fared worse under the revenue option. To be clear, rice producers are very grateful for the work the Agriculture Committees did last fall, but rice producers are not doing handstands over the loss of the Direct Payment. Rather, rice entered the Farm Bill discussion with the understanding that this was an exercise in shared sacrifice.

Over my lifetime of experience with producers from every corner of the country producing every kind of crop, producers want to earn their living off the market, they don’t want a Farm Bill to be too rich or to eliminate all the risks of farming, and they certainly do not want a Farm Bill policy alone to guarantee a profit. This sort of excess, they will tell you, drives up their cost of doing business and is unsustainable politically, and that is true whether we are talking about revenue, price, or any other kind of protection offered by a Farm Bill.

Don’t Add More Bureaucratic Rules.

Another thing producers will offer is that they would appreciate if Washington would not add even more to all the uncertainty. Beyond DOL, DOT, and EPA tentacles stretching everywhere, five years ago, the Farm Bill underwent the biggest reforms to pay limits and AGI means testing in the history of farm policy. Do not throw producers into yet another round of uncertainty over these issues when a flurry of uncertainty already surrounds every aspect of business life today. Moreover, crop insurance is insurance and insurance should not be subject to Farm Bill rules.

What Farmers Have in Common is Greater than their Differences.

In mid-March, producers of nearly every crop you can think of representing 18 farm groups, 32 financial institutions, and 69 Main Street businesses from Minnesota, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas will converge on Washington united in carrying this message to Capitol Hill.

I have always believed and will never be dissuaded that all the things that should unite producers from across the country, whatever the crop and whatever the region, far and away outstrips whatever divides them. If producers pull together and recognize one another’s needs, there is at least a shot of getting a good Farm Bill done this year. If not, we will be back at it next year under much tougher conditions.

Larry Combest, a Republican from West Texas, served in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly 20 years, including as Chairman of the Select Committee on Intelligence and the Agriculture Committee.

For more news go to: www.agri-pulse.com

CIPA Seeks New Members

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:54:33 GMT

CIPA is seeking new applicants for membership at all levels. CIPA will consider all agents who meet a strict criterion of personal and professional integrity, in depth knowledge of crop insurance, and have a strong grasp of legislative and regulatory policies and procedure.

Each new full member will be granted access to an otherwise restricted area of the CIPA website, as well as an extensive national directory of fellow agents. Members will also receive bi-weekly newsletters and timely, important updates regarding the legislative and regulatory landscape affecting crop insurance.

For information on the benefits associated with other levels of membership, click here. To request an application for full, allied or associate membership, click here or to join as a supporting member, click here.

Learn more about the Crop Insurance Professionals Association.