Drought’s Impact on SC Farms

COLUMBIA, S.C.C (WOLO) — Beef, poultry and dairy farmers could stand to lose big as the state suffers through a drought; however, the impact may not be as bad as they or consumers think, according to state officials. A devastatingly dry ear of corn, beaten and battered by a South Carolina summer, combined with a water shortage, that doesn’t seem to let up sets atop others like it in a box at the South Carolina State Farmers market. Local farmers say that scene mirrors their feelings, as they try to survive the summer drought. The continued drought in the state threatens the very items livestock and poultry farmers depend on to sufficiently nourish their animals, which ends up impacting farmers’ bottom line and your wallet. Melon growers we spoke with agree, if what they grow doesn’t get what it needs, everything suffers. As discouraging and challenging the drought has been for local farmers, the commissioner of the state department of agriculture says consumers shouldn’t be too alarmed just yet. Commissioner Hugh Weathers admits the effects of a water shortage can’t be ignored. He says dry conditions are negatively impacting the state’s pastures, which will impact the beef industry. However, he says the Palmetto State is actually fairing better than other states in making it through the drought.