Saskatchewan Hail Claims Jump

SASKATOON - Aug 10/06 - SNS -- Hail damage claims have risen sharply in Saskatchewan the past two weeks, according to the Canadian Crop Hail Association.

The association says with claims flowing in at a rapid pace, it's difficult to get an accurate tally. However, it appears the number of claims over the past two weeks may exceed all the previous claims from this growing season.

"There are substantial claims from a number of dates, particularly August 3 and 4," says Murray Otterson who represents one of the member organizations of the Canadian Crop Hail Association. The heaviest damage stretches from north of Rosetown to the Wilkie area and all the way across to the Humboldt region."

Since harvest has started in many areas, producers need to know the industry standards for leaving samples of hailed crop for adjusters.

"For most crops, producers can swath without leaving any standing samples," explains Rob Goeres, chair of the association. "Hailed crops can be adjusted in the swath. The exceptions are peas and lentils, where some standing samples are required."

For crops being straight combined, standing samples are needed. Producers should check with their hail insurance company for information on appropriate check strips if they are going to combine prior to the crop being adjusted. It will take adjusters some time to work their way through the onslaught of recent claims.