WASHINGTON (October 17, 2011)—The Hand That Feeds U.S. today announced that the country's crop insurers have become its newest coalition member.

The National Crop Insurance Services (NCIS) represents crop insurance companies from across the country and promotes the nation's public-private crop insurance program, which helps growers pick up the pieces following weather and market-related disasters.

"It's been impossible to miss the news stories, painting pictures of oppressive drought, massive flooding, and the host of other natural disasters plaguing our nation's farmers this year. As the link between rural America and risk protection, NCIS will help us to reach a broader audience that spans both the urban media and agricultural community," said Larry Combest, former chair of the House Agriculture Committee and spokesperson for The Hand That Feeds U.S.

The coalition made headlines recently by working with Miss America 2011, Teresa Scanlan, who has proven to be an energetic advocate for U.S. farmers and ranchers.

Through an educational website, dynamic e-newsletter, and regular interaction with members of the media, The Hand That Feeds U.S. strives to fill the information vacuum between everyday farmers and urban reporters.