Oklahoma farmers, including those at Stratford’s Sugar Sand Farms, are dealing with lower yields and rising costs after unusual weather patterns disrupted the growing season.

Impact on Local Farmers

Jeff Crosby, owner of Sugar Sand Farms, explained that the trouble began with the warmest February on record, which caused early blooms on his peach trees. Those blooms were then damaged when cold weather returned in March and April.

Crosby said he was lucky to lose only a small portion of his blooms but noted how close he came to losing his entire crop. For crops like peaches, there is no second chance.

Farmers are also grappling with rising costs, including higher fuel prices, which are compounding the challenges of lower yields. Crosby encouraged people to support local farmers during these difficult times.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.