Flooding could cost millions in crop losses

JASPER COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) – Farmers are adding up their losses after more than 15 inches of rain flooded parts of Jasper County since May 30.

“I’ve seen water in places I’ve never seen before and it’s staying, it’s not leaving,” said Bryan Overstreet, Jasper County’s Purdue Extension Educator. “Looking at those fields, it’s kind of heartbreaking to see all that hard work and money being lost each day.”

Overstreet estimated crop losses could be in the millions, and farmers have already begun contacting insurance agents to begin the claim process.

“Personally, we’re not as bad off as some. But everything’s saturated. Crops are losing their healthy look, and we’re going to have some acres that just aren’t going to be planted,” said farmer Ron McIlwain. “You can’t afford to let it bother you. It goes with the territory.”

Some locations near Rensselaer recorded as much as 15.78 inches of rain since May 30 – nearly three times the average, according to Overstreet.

In addition to contacting their insurance agent, Overstreet recommended farmers who’ve been affected by flooding also contact the Farm Services Agency to find out about other options.

Purdue Extension Service has scheduled a news conference for Friday to further discuss the flooding’s economic impact, crop insurance, pest control, cover crop options and other similar issues.