Weather is not the only ever-changing issue impacting crop production, pests are top of mind as well.
A recent study in the state of Georgia found that deer cost cotton farmers as much as $152 million dollars in 2023 alone, making the likes of Bambi Georgia cotton’s #1 economic pest.
Lee Cromley, who farms in Bulloch Country outside of Savannah shared with Southeast Farm Press estimated that 15-20% of his cotton fields showed severe damage, that is on top of 20% of his acres with moderate damage.
While deer have always been a problem in the cotton-producing state, the apparent recent flair has left UGA Extension Professionals puzzled.
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Industry leaders say damage tied to the Strait of Hormuz conflict may continue impacting global fertilizer supplies long after shipping resumes.
Washington growers say this year’s cherry crop may be smaller than last season but still strong enough to support promotions.
The risk is prolonged crop weakness. Stable farmland values remain critical if losses continue.
Drought remains a major risk, with the ERS reporting that 98 percent of the U.S. cotton production area was affected by drought in early May.
