For Missouri cattlemen and hay producers, weather isn’t just a conversation starter—it’s the difference between a profitable year and an expensive one. When the rain stops falling, the cost of supplemental feed and hay skyrockets.
That is where Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) Insurance comes in. Unlike traditional crop insurance that requires an adjuster to visit your field, PRF is a unique tool designed to protect your bottom line based on local weather data.
How Does the “Rainfall Index” Work?
The PRF program uses a “grid system” established by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Each grid is approximately 17×17 miles.
Here is the key: You don’t have to prove a loss on your specific farm. Instead, the program measures precipitation within your grid compared to the 50-year historical average for that same period. If the recorded precipitation falls below the “trigger level” you’ve selected, you receive an indemnity payment.
Why Owensville Area Producers Choose PRF:
No Adjusters Needed: Because the payout is based on objective NOAA data, there is no waiting for an adjuster to inspect your grass or hay.
Flexibility: You can choose which “intervals” (two-month periods) to insure. If you are worried about a dry mid-summer or a lack of fall rain for stockpiling, you can focus your coverage there.
Government Subsidized: Like Row Crop insurance, the USDA subsidizes PRF premiums, making it a cost-effective risk management tool for operations of all sizes.
Covers Hay and Grazing: Whether you are cutting alfalfa or running cows on fescue, PRF provides a safety net to help buy hay or feed when the rain doesn’t show up.
Why Local Expertise Matters
Selecting the right grids and the right time intervals is critical. If you choose the wrong months, you could be left unprotected during a drought.
As an Owensville-based agent, Jim Hardecke understands the specific climate patterns of Gasconade County and the surrounding areas. We use specialized software to look at your specific acres, analyze historical data, and help you build a PRF plan that actually makes sense for your operation.
Protect Your Operation Before the Deadline
PRF has a strict annual signup deadline (usually December 1st for the following year). Don’t wait until the ponds are low and the grass is brown to think about coverage.
Ready to see the data for your specific grid? Contact Jim Hardecke at Farm Risk Advisor today for a no-obligation grid analysis.