Farm Bureau
Agent: Carla Shipman
Location: Yellville, Ark.
Agent History: Carla Shipman has been a Farm Bureau agent for 15 years. Because she and her husband, Gweldon, are local farmers, she brings a unique ability to her job. She said, “If you come to me and say you want to insure your new hay tedder, I’ll know exactly what you’re talking about.”
Company Information: Over 50 years ago, the property and casualty companies were formed by a group of Farm Bureau Federation leaders who shared a vision of providing better member service and lower insurance rates. To apply for insurance, an applicant must first become a member of a County Farm Bureau.
What makes you different from other insurance companies?
“We insure what other insurance companies don’t. In addition to traditional home, life and auto insurance, we provide general farm liability insurance, insure tractors and farm equipment, livestock – and even homes with wood heat. We also provide scholarships to all three of the local school districts. Membership dues enable the Farm Bureau to lobby to protect the agricultural community and our way of life. Most companies don’t do that.”
Recommendations for
farmers?
“I think farmers don’t understand how economically they can insure their tractors and equipment. A farmer should never be without general farm liability. The potential for loss far outweighs the minimum cost for insurance.”
Story and Photo by Jack and Pam Fortner
