According to RMA, the existing appraisal methods used for crop insurance purposes (Maturity Line Weight and Weight Methods for corn and Seed Count Method for soybeans) consistently err on the high side (sometimes by as much as 30%) for yields that are at or above average. This has the potential to significantly inflate APH yields over time. TKC Communications subcontracted AgriLogic to evaluate the existing appraisal methods and recommend one of the following: (1) Make no changes to the existing methods; (2) Make modifications to the existing methods; or;(3) Utilize an alternative method.

In order to make this determination, AgriLogic worked with leading loss adjusters who also farm corn/soybeans in each of the leading production states (including Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin) to perform field-testing of the current methodology, in addition to several alternative methodologies. The results were compared to actual harvested production. The results were further validated with additional field-testing conducted during the 2004 crop year.

Two alternative methodologies, both developed by the University of Illinois, were tested and evaluated. The first method has been utilized on the Pro Farmer Midwest Crop Tour since 1991. The second method is similar to the first, but utilizes a slide rule to estimate yield.