IrrigationNZ Risk Partner: FMG

The winds will come; take time to plan now

Advice from FMG, IrrigationNZ’s Risk Partner.

Although your irrigators are probably parked up, those winds will eventually come so now’s the time to plan how’ll you protect your irrigators from damage.

The windstorm in Culverden last September was a reminder of this and resulted in rural insurer FMG settling $1.5 million in claims.

Wind damage is consistently the top cause of irrigator claims, FMG Manager of Advice Services Stephen Cantwell said.

“In spring the frequency and severity of foehn winds rise, which increases the risk of irrigators blowing over. Around 34 percent of irrigator claims are related to wind damage.”

FMG wants to support farmers and growers to limit the disruption irrigator damage can have on their business.

“We’ve worked with the team at IrrigationNZ and based on our claims’ insights, together we’ve developed an irrigator advice guide. We know how important irrigation is for farmers and growers, and New Zealand’s economy. The guide provides practical advice on how you can limit the risk of irrigator damage,” said Mr Cantwell.

A key piece of advice in the guide is to take time to plan before spring.

“Although the impact of wind on irrigators may not be the first thing on your mind right now taking the time to put together a wind plan can really ease the pressure come spring. This is particularly important if you have new employees on board,” said Mr Cantwell.

PUT AN IRRIGATOR PLAN ON YOUR WINTER TO-DO LIST

“Prior to spring is a great time to review and/or document your irrigator plan,” said Mr Cantwell.

Here are some suggestions on what to consider:

1. Prediction

New Zealand weather patterns are known for being variable and unpredictable. Farmers and growers are increasingly more connected online. Some of FMG’s clients have had great success in using platforms such as MetService and Yr as well as applications such as PredictWind and Windy which allow you to set parameters for wind speed alerts.

2. Authority

There needs to be a clear understanding of who is responsible for monitoring winds and making the final decision to proceed with the action plan.

3. Action

It’s important that all employees understand what the agreed farm plan is if strong winds are on the way. This could include the method of “Point, Park, and Anchor”.

4. Practice

Winter is a good time to practice your plan, especially for new employees who may not be familiar with it. Just like fires, wind events are spasmodic, so ‘on the job’ practice is limited. Practicing the plan will help to keep you across what to do when high winds come.

For more detailed advice download the Irrigator Guide available free from: www.fmg.co.nz/advice/irrigators.