FARM INSURANCE – CORNERSTONE

FARM INSURANCE IN ALBERTA

At Cornerstone Insurance Brokers, we understand the unique risks that come with operating a market garden variety farm and having the right insurance coverage is essential to protect your livelihood from unexpected events.

WHO NEEDS FARM INSURANCE?

A market garden variety farm is a small-scale farm focused on growing high-value crops such as vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers for direct sale to consumers. These farms often sell their produce at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, or through community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. Unlike large commercial farms, market gardens typically use intensive farming techniques on smaller plots of land, emphasizing sustainability, crop rotation, and organic practices.

If your farm produces goods for sale, such as vegetables, fruits, herbs, or eggs, you need specialized insurance to cover potential losses. We provide coverage for:

• Market gardens and vegetable farms
• Greenhouses, potato barns and nurseries
• Hobby farms that sell produce or eggs to the public

We also provide coverage for dairy operations and are happy to assist with your other farm-related insurance needs.

WHY YOU NEED FARMERS INSURANCE

Farming is subject to many risks, including unpredictable weather, natural disasters, and unique liability concerns including:

• Hail and Windstorms: These can damage crops, greenhouses, and farm structures.
• Snow load: Can lead to barn collapse.
• Flooding: Heavy rainfall can lead to water damage and crop loss.
• Fire: Dry conditions and equipment malfunctions pose fire hazards.
• Theft and Vandalism: Equipment, tools, and even crops can be targeted.
• Product Liability: Selling food to the public carries risks of contamination or illness claims.
• General Liability: Anytime the public is on premises there are risks of injury.

How You Stay Protected

 We offer a range of coverage options including:

• Property Insurance: Covers damage to greenhouses, outbuildings, and other farm structures.
• Machinery & Equipment Insurance: Protects your farm equipment from fire, water, theft, explosion etc.
• General Liability Insurance: Shields your farm against claims of injury resulting from your products. Also extends coverage to any farm land that is rented to others.
• Business Interruption Insurance: Helps cover lost income if your farm is temporarily unable to operate due to an insured event.

Risk Prevention

While insurance provides financial protection, proactive risk management is essential to help prevent losses. Consider these strategies being in place:

• Weather Protection: Install hail nets, wind barriers, and proper drainage to minimize weather-related damage.
• Fire Safety: Keep vegetation trimmed around structures, store flammable materials properly, and maintain fire extinguishers.
• Security Measures: Use fencing, locks, and surveillance cameras to deter theft and vandalism.
• Product Safety: Follow best practices for washing, storing, and handling produce and eggs to reduce contamination risks.
• Greenhouse Maintenance: Regularly inspect structures for leaks, wear, and insulation issues to ensure stable growing conditions.

Get the Right Coverage for Your Garden Market Variety Farm

Every farm is different, and your insurance should be tailored to your specific risks. Our team at Cornerstone Insurance Brokers is here to personalize the exact right coverage for your needs.