Summer Heat Affects Crops on Local and National Level

It would be an understatement to say that this summer has been hot. Many find themselves miserable in the summer heat, and work out ways to avoid it. However, the effects of the heat may stay with us longer than expected, especially when you buy groceries this fall.

Across the nation, agriculture and livestock have been seriously affected by the summer’s high heat. Temperatures are climbing so high that trying to grow anything for the fall can be disappointing work. Global Change reports that the United States produces more than $330 billion per year in agricultural commodities, more than half of which are livestock. It is expected that weather patterns in the western and southern parts of the nation will show the greatest increase in consecutive dry days, while the number of hot nights is projected to increase throughout the United States; this could bring a negative impact on crops and animals.

A study by the Environmental Protection Agency on the increasing temperatures and crop yield reminds us of an important and sobering fact: exports from the United States are critical at home and on the global market. The world population has reached the billions, and farmers must come to terms with what they are facing if they are to meet the demand. The EPA reports that overall climate change (temperatures) could make it more difficult to grow crops, raise animals, and catch fish in the same ways and in the same places as we have done in the past. Warmer temperatures could make crops grow more quickly, but also may reduce the yield.

However, the EPA also claims that in some areas warming may benefit the types of crops that are typically planted there. However, like in almost all cases, if temperatures get too extreme yield of the crops themselves will be scarce. It is not just extreme temperatures that can cause a low yield: extreme weather events such as flooding and droughts can also be detrimental to crops. Also, many weeds, pests, and fungi thrive in warmer temperatures and wetter climates, making them an added factor to famers’ headaches.

Locally, we are experiencing some of the same effects on our agricultural efficiency. Many people not only have gardens, but know people who are professional famers, and the community hates to see difficult times ahead. The University of Illinois reports that extreme temperatures (hot or cold) can inhibit fruit set on tomatoes and other garden plants. Temperatures, as well as moisture, can affect the flavor of fruits and vegetables.

Not all of the projected reports for Tennessee are necessarily bad. The Center for Integrative Environmental Research claims that the state can see yields in certain crops like soybeans. They also project that cotton will thrive under the current weather conditions. CIER explains that, despite these gains, the state’s agricultural sector is still effected by high temperatures and carbon dioxide concentrations, causing uncertainties.

While many of us might be hurting in our wallets come fall, a bigger problem may have presented itself. Local and national farmers must now find a way to combat Mother Nature and the inconsistent and devastating weather that she brings. Farmers must now find creative solutions and work on strategies to help their yield flourish in spite of the negative circumstances.