SASKATCHEWAN CROP INSURANCE DEADLINE EXTENDED TO DECEMBER 1

Saskatchewan Crop Insurance (SCIC) recognizes there is a significant amount of crop left out in the field and will extend the deadline for 2009 claims and extension requests from November 15 to December 1.

"When the weather doesn't cooperate with crop insurance deadlines, farmers deserve an extension," Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz said. "Right now farmers are focused on getting the crop off and that is why we are working with the Saskatchewan Government to make sure the paperwork can wait."

"Because of difficult conditions and the limited progress of harvest in October, we have extended the deadline to register claims and insurance extensions," Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud said. "This will give producers coverage as they work to get their crops off the field."

If producers believe they are in a claim position and still have crops in the field approaching the extended December 1 deadline, they should contact Crop Insurance to register a claim and an insurance extension. This will provide producers with compensation for their losses and ensure coverage for potential damages over winter.

Crops unable to be harvested until spring are also eligible for 100 per cent wildlife damage compensation. There are no producer premiums and producers do not require a crop insurance contract to receive this compensation.

To report production information, register a claim or request an extension of insurance, producers should contact their local customer service office or call 1-888-935-0000.

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For more information, contact:

Daniel Jungwirth
Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation
Melville
Phone: 306-728-7427
Email: daniel.jungwirth@scic.gov.sk.ca