Agriculture officials from the state Department of Agriculture, Clemson University, South Carolina Farm Bureau, Farm Credit and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are working together to get an estimate of the scope of agricultural damage left in the wake of Hurricane Matthew.
"Almost on the anniversary of last year's devastating flooding, this storm has affected many of the same areas still trying to recover," said Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers.
Early estimates indicate a significant loss of the cotton crop, and a moderate loss of soybeans.
"Many farmers were able to harvest peanuts before the storm hit, but seven of 12 peanut-buying points are without power, so storage could soon become an issue, Weather said. "High-value fall fruits and vegetables saw an initial harvest, but subsequent harvest will be impact."
He said the poultry sector has reported mortality of about 203,000 birds.
"Many farms are still without electricity and are relying on generators to power the chicken houses," he said. "Farmers are facing very similar challenges to last October's flooding, and this natural disaster will be another significant setback to our state's No. 1 industry. We are working diligently to ensure the needs of the farming community are heard in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew."
Farmers are encouraged to complete Clemson's online damage assessment form to aid officials in determining the full ipact of the hurricane. The form is available online at clemson.edu/public/emergency.
