By Scout Nelson
South Dakota has experienced significant flooding, which has extensively damaged agricultural fields. Kevin Deinert, president of the South Dakota Soybean Association, highlighted the widespread flood damage affecting crops across the state.
Many areas still exhibit standing water, complicating recovery efforts and potentially leading to long-term impacts on crop viability.
Brent Greenway, treasurer of the same association, noted the shift from an unusually dry spring to excessive rainfall, causing water to accumulate and persist in lower field areas.
This situation poses a risk to the roots of crops, which may not reach deep enough into the soil to access necessary subsoil moisture for growth.
Despite recent dry conditions that have somewhat alleviated the waterlogging, local farmers remain cautious. The damage extent is still unclear, and there is a general reluctance to predict the upcoming harvest's success.
This uncertainty is compounded by concerns over potential decreases in yields, which could result in reduced supply and consequent price increases for consumers.
The situation reflects the broader challenges faced by the agricultural community in adapting to extreme weather patterns, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and innovative farming practices to mitigate such risks.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: South Dakota, Business, Crops, Soybeans