• Severe drought conditions in North Carolina have led to 82 counties being declared natural disaster areas by the USDA, enabling farmers to access emergency loans and relief programs.
• Farmers are implementing increased watering regimens, such as strategic early morning irrigation, to combat plant fatigue and maximize water use efficiency.
• Pick-your-own fields are expected to see more families this season, offering a cost-effective alternative to grocery store prices amid rising agricultural costs due to the drought.