Extreme Weather Affecting Crops, Livestock

WASHINGTONExtreme heat and weather across the Midewest, South and Plains are taking its toll on farm crops and livestock and causing volatility in the market. This week the U.S. Department of Agriculture reassured farmers and ranchers in states affected by extreme weather that the agency would continue to work hard to deliver assistance to those in need.

Corn prices have soared as high temperatures have destroyed crops in the hardest-hit states of Kansas, Texas, North Carolina, Indiana and Illinois. Corn for December delivery settled up 10.25 cents Tuesday at $6.8725 a bushel after hitting $7.04 a bushel in earlier trading. According to USDA estimates, 11% of the corn crop is in poor-to-very-poor condition, compared with 9% one year ago. About 66% is in good-to-excellent condition, compared with 72% one year ago. Kansas, Texas, North Carolina, Indiana and Illinois are the hardest-hit states.

According to Drovers Cattle Network, cattle for August delivery fell 0.85 cent, or 0.8%, to $1.096 per pound in trading at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. The CME October contract fell 0.82 cent, or 0.8%, to $1.155 per pound. August feeder cattle futures fell 0.82 cent, or 0.6%, to $1.348 per pound.

The extreme heat is forcing many cattle producers to sell livestock earlier than expected because they gain weight slower or, in extreme cases, die from the intense heat. In fact, South Dakota State Veterinarian Dustin Oedekoven reported at least 1,500 head of cattle have died across the state during the prolonged excessive hot spell, with temperatures hovering near 100 degrees.

Farmers who lost livestock or crops to the heat should contact their local county or state USDA Service Center or Farm Service Agency office for assistance.