By Andi Anderson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is introducing important improvements to its federal crop insurance program for grape producers in Ohio. Beginning with the 2027 crop year, the updated program will provide broader coverage options and more accurate pricing methods for growers across both states.
The enhancements are designed to better reflect the value of individual grape varieties and provide producers with stronger risk management tools. Previously, many grape varieties were grouped together under larger category classifications.
Under the new system, growers will have access to variety-specific pricing and optional units, allowing insurance coverage to more closely match actual market values and production conditions.
According to USDA officials, the changes were developed in response to feedback received from grape producers. The updates are expected to improve coverage accuracy and provide additional support for the grape industry.
Pat Swanson, Administrator of the Risk Management Agency (RMA), emphasized the importance of the improvements, stating, “RMA is committed to ensuring our programs provide the protection producers need. We’re listening to producers. These enhancements were made in response to local feedback and give Michigan and Ohio grape growers access to pricing that more accurately reflects the value of their individual grape varieties. These changes will improve alignment between coverage options and producers’ actual market conditions.”
As part of the expansion, additional counties in Ohio will now qualify for coverage. Certain counties will receive insurance protection for Native and Hybrid grape varieties, while others will receive coverage for Native, Hybrid, and Vinifera grape varieties. This broader availability will allow more growers to participate in the federal crop insurance program and benefit from enhanced risk protection.
The move toward separating grape varieties is expected to provide significant advantages for producers. By using pricing and yield data specific to each variety, insurance coverage can more accurately reflect production risks and market opportunities. This approach allows growers to receive coverage tailored to the grapes they cultivate rather than relying on broader classifications.
Under the updated program, producers will be required to maintain separate Actual Production History (APH) databases for each grape type and production practice. These records will help ensure accurate yield tracking and insurance calculations.
The USDA encourages grape growers to contact their crop insurance agents to learn more about the new options and determine eligibility. Producers interested in participating should also be aware that the sales closing date for the Ohio grape insurance program is November 20, 2026.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Ohio, Government & Policy