A stretch of heat and dry weather has put many areas across Georgia and South Carolina into a moderate drought. Leaving many local farmers that rely on the crop, to suffer the consequences.
It's been five weeks without a soaking rain.
“It's been in the last five weeks that this drought has really taken its toll. And has shortened the crop somewhat and has made the crop very expensive to irrigate,” said Jimmy Forrest, Co-Owner of Dixie Belle Peaches.
Over in North Augusta, Gurosik Farms say their blackberries have been impacted from the drought, losing many bushes.
Further into South Carolina, the crop impacted most is the corn.
“With 95 to 100 degree temperatures, the water isn't going to do much. Our field corn is practically gone, because we have no irrigation for it. From what I've seen around, it's going to be scarce in South Carolina,” said Larry Cook, Partner of Cook’s Farm.
Even in Georgia, farmer Jim Steed says the famous Steeds Dairy Corn Maze is having a difficult time growing.
As for the famous state fruit, the peaches are also experiencing consequences.
“It impacts the volume, the bushels per tree per acre. Obviously when the fruit is smaller, they turn out less bushels. Less bushels means less boxes to sell,” said Forrest.
But with less water, there is a positive side effect.
“We are having a smaller peach this year than we normally would. The peaches will be smaller but they are still flavorful. The less water you have in a peach, the more flavorful you have,” said Cook.
As the dry spell continues, all farmers can do is hope and pray for rain.
Source - https://www.wfxg.com
