How Farmers Are Stacking Crop Insurance, FSA, and Disaster Aid for 2026

In this episode of Farm4Profit, we’re joined by Ken Ripley, AVP of Regional Sales for FMH’s Northwest region and a farmer himself in southern Minnesota. Ken brings decades of experience from both John Deere and crop insurance, helping producers understand how to build smarter protection strategies.We break down:The current financial environment farmers are facingHow crop insurance, FSA programs, and disaster relief work togetherWhat’s changed under the new USDA and RMA leadershipKey updates to ARC/PLC, base acres, reference prices, and SCO flexibilityNew and expanded area coverage options like ECO, SCO, and MCOEnhancements to the Beginning Farmer/Rancher programDisaster programs like SDRP Phase 2 and the new Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) programWhy precision data is becoming critical for reporting, claims, and auditsKen also shares practical advice for navigating these decisions without getting overwhelmed — including why working closely with a trusted crop insurance agent can help producers avoid missed opportunities.With so many changes heading into 2026, this episode helps farmers step back, understand the big picture, and make intentional decisions that protect profitability. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: [email protected]/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.