Deadlines approach for Northwest crop insurance

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is reminding Northwest farmers that deadlines to apply for 2017 crop insurance are approaching.

Producers must apply for coverage prior to the closing dates. Existing policyholders who wish to make changes also face the same cut off dates.

The deadline for fall-planted canola and rapeseed in Washington, Oregon and Idaho is Aug. 31. The deadline for fall-planted onions in Umatilla and Walla Walla is Aug. 31.

The deadline for fall-planted barley in select counties in Washington, Oregon and Idaho is Sept. 30, as is the deadline for fall-planted dry peas and lentils in Idaho and Washington and forage seed and mint in Washington, Oregon and Idaho.

The wheat deadline for all three states is Sept. 30.

Producers should contact their insurance agent to learn specific details for the 2017 crop year. Crop insurance is sold and delivered through private crop insurance agents.

Crop insurance protects against losses due to natural events such as drought, hail or excessive rain.

This story was originally published August 10, 2016 at 6:47 PM with the headline "Deadlines approach for Northwest crop insurance."