(U.S. Sugar) — We have begun making storm preparations. While there is not a great deal Glades farmers can do to prepare our farms or crops for a hurricane, we have started lowering canal levels, securing buildings/equipment and keeping an eagle eye on weather reports.
Our sugarcane is in its “grand growth” period, and we have cane in all stages of growth in expectation of early fall harvest. We were planning to start planting corn next week, but currently do not have any vegetable crops in the ground. Our citrus trees are heavy with fruit and would be damaged by both strong winds and heavy rain.
While it is too early to even speculate how much wind, rain or damage our crops or our region may receive from Dorian at this time, we will prepare for the worst and pray for the best.
As always, a farmer’s best option before, during and after a disaster (whether natural or man-made) is prayer. We are praying for our families, our communities, our neighbors and lastly, our crops which also may be in the path of the storm.
Source: Judy Clayton Sanchez – Spokesperson, U. S. Sugar