Farmers in western Pennsylvania are facing continued rainfall and flooding, which could significantly impact crop yields this season. At Yarnick's Farm in Armstrong Township, Indiana County, an entire sweet corn field was submerged. "I was shocked," said farm owner Dan Yarnick. "These fields were like a lake; everything was underwater."
Yarnick reported that 16 hectares (40 acres) of his 101-hectare (250-acre) farm were flooded, describing the situation as "very depressing" due to the emotional and financial toll. His produce supplies Pittsburgh-area stores and restaurants, including Eat'n Park. While the farm had been profitable since the early 1980s, Yarnick noted losses of $200,000 over the past two years, which he attributes to inflation.
By Thursday evening, some of the floodwater had receded, but a large pool remained above a cornfield, rendering that crop a loss. Still, Yarnick remained cautiously hopeful. "Maybe some will recover. The corn might stand up. The peppers—this little pepper field—I had no room, so I stuck them in early. They don't like wet feet. They'll get disease, and they won't produce," he explained.
This season is shaping up to be one of the worst in recent memory in terms of flooding. Yarnick and other local farmers worry about possible crop shortages and price increases. "Could there be shortages? You know, it could be price hikes," he said. When asked about supplying early-season corn to other farms, he made clear that his market takes precedence.
Nearby, Crighton Family Farm in Butler County is facing similar issues. For the first time at this point in the year, flooding has prevented them from planting, raising concerns about whether they will be able to plant at all this season.
Yarnick emphasized the need for a change in weather: "It's going to be rough. It's so consistent," he said, stressing the urgent need for sunshine to aid in crop recovery. Beyond the immediate agricultural impact, Yarnick expressed deeper concerns about the future of the farm and his hopes to pass it on to his son. "We can only take so many hits," he said.
Source: CBS News