Swine & Dine Farms underwent a devastating loss when a ventilation system shut off, resulting in the deaths of 2,400 hogs. Swine & Dine didn't own the hogs: they were contract growers raising the hogs for an "integrator," the contract owner of the animals who is not suing for the value of the lost hogs. What liability coverage is available for these folks? Notable Timestamps

[ 00:41 ] - A ventilation failure led to the suffocation of thousands of hogs raised by a Contract Grower.

[ 04:47 ] - This scenario centers on farm commercial liability policies, not property coverage.

[ 05:20 ] - Standard farm liability forms often exclude damage to property in the insured's care, custody, or control, with narrow exceptions that may not fit contract grower operations.

[ 07:45 ] - Adjusters should obtain and closely review the grower–integrator contract, as it may define ownership, responsibilities, and procedures that directly affect liability and coverage.

[ 08:46 ] - Force majeure clauses can limit or eliminate liability when losses arise from events beyond a party's reasonable control, but their applicability depends on precise contract language.

[ 11:08 ] - Coverage and defense issues may diverge, requiring careful coordination when contracts include provisions that could waive recovery even if coverage defenses exist.

[ 12:51 ] - Brennan summarizes the key points above.

Your PLRB Resources

Recorded Webinar: Farm Bureau Town Hall Meeting - https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/farm-bureau-town-hall-meeting

CE Course: Specialized Equipment Losses - https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/specialized-equipment-losses

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The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

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