St. Paul RO: USDA Announces New Crop Insurance Program for Hybrid Wheat Seed Producers in North Dakota and Minnesota

(St. Paul, Minn., Feb. 4, 2026) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) announced the availability of a new crop insurance program for hybrid wheat seed producers in 12 counties across North Dakota and Minnesota beginning with the 2026 crop year. The Hybrid Wheat Seed program will provide comprehensive multi-peril coverage, supporting producers who are investing in next-generation agricultural technology. 

Hybrid wheat seed represents a significant advancement in wheat seed production, developed through genetic selection for hybrid vigor, adverse weather tolerance, lower seeding rates and enhanced crop yields. RMA has collaborated with producers, seed companies and insurance agents in the coverage area since 2022 to develop this specialized insurance program. 

“This new insurance program demonstrates RMA’s commitment to supporting agricultural innovation,” said RMA Administrator Pat Swanson. “By providing robust risk management tools for hybrid wheat seed producers, we’re helping ensure the continued development and adoption of technologies that improve yield, increase productivity and enhance farmer profitability.” 

Hybrid wheat seed coverage will be available in the following states and counties: 

• Minnesota: Clay and Polk 
• North Dakota: Barnes, Bottineau, Mclean, Nelson, Pembina, Renville, Traill, Walsh, Ward and Wells 

The new hybrid wheat seed policy utilizes RMA commercial yield and price data to establish guarantees, consistent with existing policies for other hybrid seed crops. However, RMA has implemented significant improvements to reduce burden on producers and stakeholders. The new policy features a streamlined approach to establishing expected yields for loss adjustment that is simple and efficient.  

Producers that are interested in hybrid wheat seed coverage should contact their crop insurance agent prior to the sales closing date of March 15, 2026. 

More Information 

RMA secures the future of agriculture by providing world class risk management tools to rural America through Federal crop insurance and risk management education programs. RMA provides policies for more than 130 crops and is constantly working to adjust and create new policies based on producer needs and feedback.

Contact a crop insurance agent to see how Federal crop insurance can meet the specific needs of your operation. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available online at the RMA Agent Locator. Producers can learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at rma.usda.gov or by contacting their RMA Regional Office. RMA’s Basics for Beginners provides information for those new to crop insurance.

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