WCB producers, this is for you, or anyone with a failing spring planted crop. Just a few quick bullets about timely notices of loss on spring crops that are already a disaster or well on their way to being one. 1) It is the producers' obligation to report damage to a crop within 72 hours of discovery. I know that is nearly impossible to gauge a production loss due to drought, but here me out on getting them submitted sooner rather than later.... 2) By submitting it timely, you are affording the adjuster with the opportunity to collect all the required back-office data for a drought loss. So even if you do not want an appraisal and want to take it to harvest, you can. When you turn in your production, the claim is quickly paid as the claim supporting documentation is done. 3) By submitting it timely, you are letting the Authorized Insurance Providers (the AIPs aka the companies) know where the problem areas are so they can re-allocate adjuster manpower where needed. This will be a consideration this year. 4) Should you turn a loss in, take it to harvest, and there be no loss, then no harm no foul. Withdraw it and life goes on. 5) Submitting a notice of loss does NOT commit you to anything. It simply streamlines the process. Want to take to harvest? That's fine. Want an appraisal to chop it for silage? That's fine. Is it a total flop and need it looked at ASAP to be able to graze it? Also, fine. Moral of the story, there isn't a downside to a timely notice of loss, even if you feel its early. If you suspect you have damage, turn it in now and let an adjuster and the AIPs start triaging these claims. It will make for a better claims experience for you and the other producers in the area.