Northwest Iowa — Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is warning that flood concerns are rising in northwest and north central Iowa.
Until the waters recede, it’s hard to assess the condition of cropland. It’s likely sand will be left behind in many places, along with other debris.
Another hurdle for the looming 2019 spring planting season is large farm equipment cannot travel on rural gravel roads that are in such soggy shape.
Naig is advising farmers in the current flood zone to contact their local USDA service center to talk through what federal assistance or loans may be available.
Crop insurance does not cover the grain once it’s been harvested. Some farmers who have an “umbrella” policy to cover all sorts of losses might be able to make a claim for spoiled grain in storage. Grain bins have been damaged by the flooding, plus corn or soybeans inside a bin that’s been swamped may be swelling and cause more damage to the structure.
