In a significant move to support nursery producers across the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the expansion of crop insurance tailored specifically for nursery growers to all counties in all states. The Nursery Value Select (NVS) program, initially a pilot, now offers comprehensive coverage options to nursery producers nationwide, allowing them to select the dollar amount of coverage that best fits their risk management needs.

Expanding Insurance Coverage for Nursery Producers

The expansion of the NVS program is part of the USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) efforts to broaden insurance options for a diverse group of producers, including those involved in specialty crops. The NVS program provides similar but improved coverage compared to the longstanding Nursery Field Grown and Container (FG&C) program. It covers field-grown and containerized nursery plants and offers various coverage levels between catastrophic and 75 percent.

“Risk Management Agency is excited to expand Nursery Value Select so nursery producers in all states have an opportunity to purchase nursery crop insurance,” said RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “This insurance option meets a critical need of American nursery producers.”

Key Features of Nursery Value Select (NVS)

Customizable Coverage: Producers can select the dollar amount of coverage that suits their specific risk management needs, providing flexibility and control.

Improved Coverage: NVS offers enhanced coverage compared to the FG&C program, ensuring better protection for nursery crops.

Comprehensive Availability: Previously limited to select counties in Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington, the NVS program will now be available in all counties across the United States starting with the 2025 crop year.

Important Dates and Deadlines

The expansion will take effect beginning with the 2025 crop year. Nursery producers interested in the NVS program should note the following sales closing dates:

• May 1, 2024
• September 1, 2024 (as provided in the actuarial documents)

Producers are encouraged to review these dates carefully and ensure they meet the necessary deadlines to take advantage of this expanded insurance option.

Benefits for Nursery Producers

The expanded NVS program provides numerous benefits for nursery producers, including:

Risk Mitigation: Enhanced insurance coverage helps producers mitigate risks associated with weather events, pests, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Financial Stability: By selecting appropriate coverage levels, producers can achieve greater financial stability and protect their investments.

Comprehensive Protection: Coverage for both field-grown and containerized nursery plants ensures comprehensive protection for diverse nursery operations.

The USDA’s expansion of the Nursery Value Select program marks a significant advancement in risk management for nursery producers across the United States. By providing customizable and improved insurance coverage, the USDA is helping nursery producers safeguard their crops and maintain financial stability. Producers are encouraged to explore this opportunity and secure their coverage ahead of the upcoming crop year.

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FAQs

1. Which states and counties are now eligible for the NVS program? Starting with the 2025 crop year, the NVS program will be available in all counties across all states in the United States. Previously, it was only available in select counties in Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington.
2. When does the expansion of the NVS program take effect? The expansion of the NVS program takes effect beginning with the 2025 crop year.
3. What are the sales closing dates for the 2025 crop year? The sales closing dates for the 2025 crop year are:

• May 1, 2024
• September 1, 2024 (as provided in the actuarial documents)