(NAFB.com) – National Farmers Union submitted comments to the USDA to restore crop insurance buy-up coverage for acres prevented from being planted. NFU warned that recent changes weaken a critical risk management tool for farmers facing mounting economic pressure. Farmers Union President Rob Larew said farmers and ranchers are facing some of the most challenging economic conditions in decades. “The decision to eliminate the option to purchase additional coverage for prevented planting only deepens that strain,” Larew said. “When high input costs, volatile markets, and extreme weather converge, farmers need every risk management tool available to protect their operations, and we strongly urge USDA to restore prevented planting buy-up coverage.” Doing so would mean farmers can continue to manage risk and remain economically viable. When weather conditions prevent timely planting, buy-up coverage provides critical protection for producers of covered commodities in all 50 states, helping them manage financial losses and maintain stability.