It’s that time of year – the leaves are changing, the weather’s getting a little chillier, and the humidity of summer has been traded for autumn thunderstorms. The very best the Simcoe region has to offer, from ripe pumpkins and artisan cheeses to fresh apples and handmade goods, will be on display at festivals all over the district.
As picturesque and rewarding as this season can be, it does bring with it a measure of risk, especially for those with commercial and hobby farms.
According to an outlook report from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the worldwide production of corn for 2019 is already facing a decline, due in no small part to an unusually damp spring for our neighbours down south. Coupled with the chances of additional unpredictable weather and the normal wear-and-tear of harvesting, it makes good sense for farmers to take a moment and make sure they – and their farm – are prepared for the months still ahead.
Why Farm Insurance is Essential for This Time of Year
Fall is when all the work, care, and attention of the first half of the year come together. It’s when you get to see and appreciate what you’ve invested in.
At the same time, harvesting, cleaning, and packaging crops for sale or transport create a litany of opportunities for issues to pop up. Without the right precautions, a tractor malfunction or a new strain of crop disease could turn what should be the most profitable time of year into a major drain on your resources.
Repairing Barns and Farm Buildings
One of the most common things to require repair, especially as snow begins to fall in late autumn, are barns and other farm buildings. If these aren’t ready to weather the winter, it can be expensive (and time-consuming) to rebuild. A good insurance policy will make sure that if a roof falls in or a wall needs replacing, you won’t be facing a loss as you begin repairs.
Additional People and Workers
Harvest time typically sees an increase in people on the farm, especially as seasonal workers may be hired to help bring in the crops. However, more hands can also mean more liability in case of accidental injury. Insurance not only protects you, but also those working in or on behalf of your business.
Quality and Quantity of Crops
It doesn’t take much to turn a hearty crop into a mushy mess. From harsh weather to hungry bugs, there’s always an element of production risk to contend with. Farming insurance can provide a welcome safety net in the event of an unexpected early frost, transforming what could be a massive loss into only a minor setback.
Equipment Damage or Wear
Farm equipment gets a good workout around harvest time. However, many farmers have been faced with the unwelcome surprise of a burnt-out battery or a corroded carburetor at the height of their workload. Without insurance, a simple replacement part can cost thousands of dollars out of pocket, along with time that you might not have to spare during the busy season.
How to Find the Right Farm Insurance for You
The agricultural community has needs and concerns that are specific to the industry. These can become even more varied when considering the differences between commercial and hobby farms, making it hard to figure out what kind of coverage your unique farm might need. Rather than spending ages trying to wade through different insurance options, one of the best and quickest options farmers have is to ask an expert for their input.
At Will Marshall Insurance Brokers, we’ve got over eleven years of experience with the agricultural industry and the farming communities of Barrie and Orillia, making us uniquely qualified to assess and recommend coverage.
Contact us for a personalized look at the best kind of insurance for you and your farm!