By Blake Jackson
Missouri farmers are facing an uncertain future as a severe drought grips the state. Mid-Missouri is hit especially hard, with almost all of Cooper County under extreme drought conditions.
The drought is stretching farmers thin. Cattle farmers have dipped into their supply of hay six months earlier than normal, and some are being forced to sell their livestock early.
Water levels are also running low for cattle farmers, and some are unable to replenish their supplies. This is forcing some farmers to sell their cattle early.
The drought is also affecting corn farmers, who could lose up to 30% of their harvest. Low water levels in the Mississippi and Missouri rivers are also impeding barge traffic, which moves Missouri's agriculture products to other markets.
The rising cost of farming is also putting pressure on farmers. This could force farmers to raise their prices, which will be passed on to consumers at the grocery store.
The Missouri Department of Agriculture has created an AgriStress hotline to help farmers cope with stress. It's staffed by health professionals who are trained in agriculture terminology.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-banksphotos
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Corn, Livestock, Weather