#Plant26: Severe Drought Slows Spring Planting Progress in Georgia

Donald Chase of Chase Farms joined us to discuss drought conditions, planting progress, input costs, and the outlook for Georgia agriculture.

OGLETHORPE, Ga. (RFD NEWS) —Spring planting progress shows southern farmers navigating severe drought, with some pausing planting until conditions improve.

Donald Chase, owner of Chase Farms and Chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission, joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report with the latest update from his region.

In his interview with RFD News, Chase provided background on his corn and peanut operation and shared how long he has been farming. He also discussed current weather conditions, noting the impact of the drought on his area this season.

Chase addressed planting progress, explaining how dry conditions have affected timing and whether they have pushed operations off schedule. He compared this year’s conditions to previous seasons and how they stack up so far.

He also spoke about input costs, including fertilizer and diesel, and whether those challenges have created hurdles or if supplies were already secured. In addition, Chase discussed the outlook for peanuts as Chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission, including industry concerns and recent demand trends.

Finally, he shared his outlook for the growing season moving forward.

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Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

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