#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.

Related Stories
Surging energy markets are quickly becoming a cost story for U.S. agriculture as crude oil climbs on supply fears tied to the Middle East conflict.
Strong corn demand and cotton shipments support export outlook.
Fertilizer investigation may impact input costs and margins.
New research shows that most farmers do not have a formal resiliency plan in place. Devin Fuhrman highlights how Nationwide’s Farm Risk Ready initiative supports farmers in building stronger, more resilient operations.
The American Coalition for Ethanol reacts as the Farm Bill heads to a full House vote — while ethanol expansion, including year-round E15, is left out — as well as the USDA’s pursuit of global markets for ethanol.
Hurd joined this week’s Champions of Rural America to review the proposed Farm Bill moving through the House and discuss its potential impact on rural communities and farmers across the country.

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.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

According to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, fire crews remain on alert statewide as Red Flag conditions persist. Officials warn that even contained fires can reignite quickly under current weather conditions.
Stephenville FFA students showcase robotics skills at the San Antonio Stock Show, blending teamwork, technology, and competition for the next generation.
It’s National FFA Week, and today we’re celebrating Alumni Day by highlighting some inspiring former FFA members making an impact in agriculture and beyond.
Alan Bjerga of the National Milk Producers Federation discusses the Dairy Margin Coverage program, recent improvements, and what producers need to know ahead of this week’s enrollment deadline.
William Lee Golden joined us to talk about his farming roots, his storied career with the Oak Ridge Boys, and how his new book and music continue to reflect the values that have guided him throughout his life and career.
Glyphosate and phosphorus are deemed critical to U.S. national defense, ensuring farmers’ access while signaling a shift toward regenerative agriculture. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insight on the Trump Administration’s move and what it could mean for U.S. farmers moving forward.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.