Chickpeas Face Tough Crop Insurance Rules

REGINA - Apr 18/06 - SNS -- With more inexperienced growers expected to try growing kabuli chickpeas this year to take advantage of current high market values, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance says growers need to pay attention to several rules specific to chickpeas to ensure they are covered in the event of a crop loss this year.

Chris Stewart, an agrologist with the insurer, says first time growers should plant a small number of acres to gain experience with this management intensive crop.

"I encourage any first-time growers, or growers who feel they are not familiar with the terms and conditions, to consult them online or contact their customer service office for a copy.Staff can address any coverage questions you may have," he added.

Some important considerations that could affect your liability include the use of high quality seed, required to produce a good crop.Some relatively high quality seed was produced in 2005, but there are also significant amounts with problematic germination and disease levels. Customers must provide a sample of their seed for verification prior to the processing of any claims.

Ascochyta levels on the seed must not exceed 0.3% as it is ready to go in the ground (after cleaning and application of any seed treatment).

"If requested, the lab will test your seed using a fungicide treatment to reduce disease.However, you must ensure you can achieve the same level of seed coverage and disease control with your equipment, or any custom application equipment.Keep in mind that Kabuli chickpea seed must be treated to control Pythium," Stewart points out.

"Because of the rapid and devastating nature of Ascochyta, you must monitor the crop closely from the time of emergence.Adequate control measures must be implemented at the earliest possible detection of the disease.Multiple fungicide applications may be required."

Chickpeas seeded more than once in four years on the same land will not be eligible for insurance.

May 21 is the final seeding date that liability that will be accepted in areas with the latest possible first fall frost.Coverage may be reduced or denied in areas where chickpeas are seeded too late to reasonably expect to mature.

Customers who are considering or have decided to stop crop monitoring or taking control measures are asked to contact their Crop Insurance customer service office to discuss the crop’s condition and all insurance implications.