During one of the driest June months on record since 2000, concerns are growing over the resilience of Wisconsin crops and the possible impact on both farmers and consumers, NBC15 reports. While so far crops like corn have remained hearty in the dry heat, the end of June could mark a turning point.
The next few weeks are a pivotal time for farmers as the critical pollination season for corn approaches. Near the end of June and beginning of July, the crop will be at its most delicate, and sufficient rain is crucial.
Substituting rain by watering is an expensive solution, with care for an acre of corn initially costing anywhere from $800–1,000 and supplementary watering adding hundreds more. Dry months can also lead to pests plaguing crops, further impacting yields.
Mounting costs from extreme weather can affect not only farmers but consumers as well if growth in crops is stunted for sustained periods of time.
