BONNER SPRINGS, KS (KCTV) -
It is the worst drought in 70 years, so many can imagine how much it is hurting farmers. But it could start hurting other industries dependent on farmers.
As the sun continues to punish area crops, farmers are feeling the heat.
"You make a wrong decision with the hot weather, and it is magnified several times over than in a normal year," farmer Danny Barker said.
Barker farms corn, soybeans and manages livestock in Lone Jack, MO.
He says most of his corn is already lost, withering away as the dry soil continues to crack under the heat.
Barker's soybeans are barely hanging on, and these days, that is exactly what he is trying to do.
"You really try to curtail any expenses, and really just cut it to the bone," he said.
Even his ponds, which have taken years to build up, have dropped nearly five feet.
And Barker is not alone. Farm risk management specialist Tony Brown is serving farmers all across the area.
Brown has been in the business since 2001 and has never seen so many farmers cash in on their policies this early in the season.
"At least it will help them from going completely backwards. It will help them survive for another year," said Brown.
But that is leading to concerns that some farmer insurers may go belly up. However, it turns out it is the taxpayer that actually stands to take the biggest hit.
Professor Bruce Babcock with Iowa State University said the companies are not likely to be in danger because they are reinsured by the federal government.
"So taxpayers will be on the hook for a significant portion of the losses," Babcock said.
It's just another reason to hope for rain and cooler weather.
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