Idaho Hailstorm Wipes Out Over $1 Million in Crops

A severe hailstorm swept across Idaho's Camas Prairie on July 16, causing extensive damage to crops and property. According to preliminary estimates, over $1 million worth of wheat was destroyed, with approximately 200,000 bushels lost. Jason Damon, grain originator with CHS Primeland, stated that the storm carved a narrow swath roughly a mile-and-a-half wide, affecting nearly 2,500 acres.

The damage was particularly severe on winter crops, with some experiencing 100% loss and others 20-50%. Canola also suffered greatly, with around 1 million pounds lost due to its brittle nature. Damon noted that the storm likely affected more than a dozen producers and possibly as many as 20.

Crop insurance adjusters will refine acreage and production loss estimates as harvest progresses. Many farmers carry federal crop insurance, but some also purchase separate hail insurance, which costs around $10 per acre on winter wheat. The timing of the storm was particularly devastating for local growers, who had invested months into raising their crops.