Flooded fields force decisions for farmers

The clock is ticking for area farmers as the June flooding has forced some farmers to make important decisions about planting.

June 5 was the planting date for corn. For soybeans, it was June 20. The 25-day late planting period for corn ends today (Tuesday).

At Purdue's Center for Commercial Agriculture, Dr. Michael Langemeier said for every day a farmer plants during those 25 days, they see a one percent reduction in crop insurance coverage.

"It doesn't sound like much. But for corn, if you're planting [Tuesday], you're looking at a 25 percent reduction in coverage. However, you still have some coverage," said Langemeier. "And that's important to keep in mind."

Agricultural experts said this month's heavy rains have already cost $300 million in crop losses.

Langemeier said farmers who haven't planted yet — or have crops that are in poor condition because of flooding — have options which may include planting, replanting or planting an alternative crop. He stressed the importance of talking with your insurance agent to determine the best option.

94.1 WGFA