Rob Lind and his brothers are facing challenging conditions in their 200-acre farm in Pawpaw, Michigan, where they grow corn, soy, wheat, and sorghum. Despite a successful previous year, this year’s unpredictable weather has severely affected their corn yields, with visible signs of damage, such as brown leaves and empty ears.
Climate change is exacerbating issues like high overnight temperatures, drought, and heavy rainfall, all of which disrupt corn pollination. This year, the pollination has been particularly problematic, leading to potential yield losses. Experts indicate that farmers are experiencing more extreme weather conditions, contributing to crop stress and low pollination rates.
The article highlights that successful farming this year relies on favorable weather following a difficult start, with farmers like Philip Goode noting delays in planting and challenges from both drought and excessive rain. As the season progresses, farmers are anxious about the uncertainty of their yields for the year.
With climate-related challenges on the rise, many are adapting through innovative solutions, including technologies like “rescue” pollination services. Overall, the unpredictable climate is causing stress for farmers, making it difficult for them to plan for the future.
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