N.C. apple growers like proposed insurance changes

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. 

North Carolina apple growers say they are happy to learn about proposed changes in federal crop insurance that would better protect them from a catastrophic loss.

The Times-News of Hendersonville reported that about two dozen Henderson County apple growers attended a meeting Wednesday with U.S. Rep. Heath Shuler and industry leaders.

One proposal would raise the reimbursement rate for insurance claims involving processed apples from $2.45 per bushel to $3.

Shuler and local industry leaders say the lower price reflects costs for apple growers nationwide, most of whom don't have to send their produce nearly as far to processing plants as local growers do.

The closest plant is more than 500 miles away in Winchester, with average shipping costs calculated at $1.64 per bushel.