Background
RMA is providing shape files of high risk or T-yield map layers of FCI-33 maps as part of our exploration of developing Geographical Information Systems (GIS) applications. These FCI-33 shape files are provided in addition to the standard hardcopy FCI-33 actuarial documents. RMA uses GIS technology to tie its actuarial and policy information to physical units of land in a manner that supports needs across the insurance industry. This capability will allow RMA and insurance providers to take advantage of the geographic content of individual insurance policies, including the ability to integrate this data with existing RMA data to create a fuller picture of the economic and agronomic attributes of a producer's insured acreage.

Each shapefile's coordinate system is projected to the appropriate Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) zone. Additional layers projected in the same UTM zone will overlay the RMA shapefile appropriately. To identify crops, types, and practices associated with the shapefile (map), refer to the map file name within each shapefile's attribute table. The map file name is a 6-digit code; the first 5 digits are the state and county FIPS code, and the final digit is a map number. This 6-digit code corresponds with the applicable map rules page.

Contact Information
RMA is accepting comments during development of the GIS actuarial maps. Please forward your comments to:

James D. Hipple, Ph.D.
Remote Sensing & GIS Advisor
Email: James Hipple
Phone: 202-690-5873