Which event generally triggers the need to file a crop insurance claim?

Filing a crop insurance claim is typically triggered by a loss in yield or crop damage. This loss can occur due to various events such as adverse weather conditions (like drought, hail, or excessive rain), pest infestations, or disease outbreaks that negatively impact the crop's growth and production. The purpose of crop insurance is to provide financial protection to farmers against these unforeseen circumstances that can lead to reduced yields or complete crop loss. Therefore, when the insured crop experiences damage that affects its expected yield, it warrants the filing of a claim to receive compensation for the loss.

The other options do not directly indicate an event that necessitates a claim. The end of the planting season is a routine event that does not inherently involve a loss. The sale of the crop at market signifies that harvesting has taken place but does not imply any loss or damage to the crop. Similarly, deciding to use a different crop variety is a management choice that does not relate to an insurance claim unless it results in a loss, which is not an automatic trigger for filing a claim.