Farms across western Massachusetts are reporting near-total loss of their crops after this week's floods in the region, and a little more rain is on the way.

The Northeast saw heavy rainfalls that caused significant damage in Vermont, upstate New York, and western Massachusetts. At least one person died in Vermont, and one in New York.

A flood watch continues in most parts of central and western Massachusetts through Friday night. And the National Weather Service predicts anywhere from 1.5 to 2 inches or more in rainfall for the region this weekend. The Connecticut River only receded from its flood stage on Thursday, and more rain could mean rivers and streams could flood again.

So far, the state estimates 1,000 acres of farmland in western Massachusetts have been impacted, according to Department of Agricultural Resources Commissioner Ashley Randle. She says it's possible the flooding caused more than $10 million in damage and crop loss.

The effect of this week's weather could extend into next year. Croplands could be unfit for planting if flood waters have mixed with sewage, chemicals or other pollutants. So farmers may be required to wait for those contaminants to dissipate before replanting.

Randle says the state expects to issue guidance to farmers in the coming weeks. Depending on the crop and the water sources, Randle says the timelines for replanting will vary.

Source - https://www.wbur.org