Flooding destroys crops, prices hit record high
Across southeast Iowa, levies continue to be sandbagged in attempts to keep the swollen Mississippi River from overflowing onto rich breadbasket farmland. Already there’s been damage. As the waters recede, farmers are staring at damaged crops that are driving corn and soybean futures to record levels.
The percentage loss in corn is around 10%; soybeans are at 8%. These losses equal, among other things, an increase in feed prices for livestock.
"The Takeaway" talks to Chad Hart, agricultural economist at Iowa State University.
"The Takeaway" is PRI’s new national morning news program, delivering the news and analysis you need to catch up, start your day, and prepare for what’s ahead. The show is a co-production of WNYC and PRI, in editorial collaboration with the BBC, The New York Times Radio, and WGBH.
More at thetakeaway.org
PRI’s coverage of economic security is supported by the Rockefeller Foundation and its Campaign for American Workders.
The story you just read is not locked behind a paywall because listeners and readers like you generously support our nonprofit newsroom. If you’ve been thinking about making a donation, this is the best time to do it. Your support will get our fundraiser off to a solid start and help keep our newsroom on strong footing. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!