HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — State climate experts say the majority of Alabama is suffering from drought after weeks without measurable beneficial rainfall. "In North Alabama, from I-59 northward, we are in an extreme drought," said associate state climatologist Lee Ellenburg. "Over the past 60 days, we're about 6 to 8 inches short of what is expected in terms of precipitation."
With no end to the dry conditions in sight, thoughts turn to the farmers growing North Alabama staple crops.
"It has a twofold impact on agriculture," explained Alabama Drought Reach program coordinator, Brianne Minton. "On the one hand, it does give farmers the space to go out into the field and harvest their summer crop because it is dry enough to get out into the field. On the other hand, it also means that it's too dry to start planting winter crops and winter wheat."
As the days eke by without rainfall, the state's farmers qualify for federal drought disaster assistance.
"To be technically designated as a drought disaster county by the USDA, it has to be a county that has been in D2 drought, which is severe drought, for at least eight weeks," said Minton, "or counties that have been in D3 or D4 drought, which is extreme and exceptional drought, for even just one week."
That means most counties in North Alabama can begin to apply for disaster loans and the other forms of assistance provided by the USDA.
"And just that designation frees up federal money through FSA Farm Service Agency to help financially assist farmers during this time," said Minton.