As a continuation of our WHAT FARMERS DO series, we are now officially in the fall season and ready to help farmers prepare for winter in the best ways possible. We have a deep understanding of the farm business and take steps to protect it vigilantly.
From homeowner insurance, farm property protection, farm liability, barn insurance and other outbuilding and farm equipment coverage, our experienced team at Erie Mutual will provide you with insurance advice and tips during regular visits and at times of need.
With years of experience in the farming and growing industry, Erie Mutual provides the right insurance coverage that protects your farm at a competitive price. Like the agri-business itself, seasons change and so must your protection.
The first day of fall is September 21st, but formally it certainly starts feeling more like fall in October with cooler temperatures, changing leaves and the holiday season fast approaching. October is a busy month for farmers because harvesting must be complete and winter operations set in place.
PREPARE FOR FIRST FROST
When preparing to harvest, farmers keep a watchful eye on the weather and enhancing crop protection in anticipation of the first frost. This will dictate the timeline for the fall harvest of apples, cranberries, broccoli, grapes, squash and more. We understand that an early frost can be catastrophic for our farming members. As in past centuries, farm-grown crops can be canned, stored or sold in order to make a profit. To prepare stored crops, they must be dry so working around rain showers is a challenge to overcome.
PLAN AHEAD
When it comes to thinking ahead, farmers typically plan 4 to 6 months ahead through winter and into spring. The fall is a great time to plant the crops for spring, the land can be prepared and crops planted for future picking. A few of our favourite leafy greens taste best when they get planted in the fall such as kale and collards, winter onions, garlic, peas, broad beans, root vegetables and cabbage.
The agriculture business can easily stay busy in the fall, this is why it remains important to always stay prepared and protected on the farm and in business.
CATCH UP
Once a farmer has finished preparations for spring, they use their remaining time to catch up on so many things, including reviewing data, improving systems/processes, maintaining or upgrading equipment, continuing care for livestock, financial planning, crop marketing, developing new relationships, and yes, even spending some time being regular people enjoying the fall and winter activities.
We understand that being a farmer is not only about protecting your crops, even though that is extremely important. We also know that you may bring in additional business with pumpkin picking, apples, grapes, corn maze exploration, farm-to-fork dinners or hayrides. These ventures may require additional insurances above your usual policy and liability coverage, so talk to Erie Mutual about your changing needs. Regardless of season, Erie Mutual is here for you to find the best insurance coverage for your specific needs.
Next, let’s look at what farmers do in the winter.
Learn more about farm insurance.
Erie Mutual Insurance proudly serves the commercial insurance, farm insurance, home insurance and auto insurance needs of members throughout Southern Ontario including Haldimand, Niagara and Hamilton.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have about this or any other topic related to your insurance.
