Minnesota farmers battle drought as crops and livestock suffer

Farmers in southwestern Minnesota are struggling with severe drought and soaring temperatures. The dry conditions are affecting crops and livestock across the region. Txongpao and Hlee Lee, who run Lee Family Farm near Farmington, are among those feeling the impact. Rock, Lincoln, and Pipestone counties are under extreme drought. Luverne and other areas have seen little rain or snow, leaving Rock County with a deficit of over 7 inches. The lack of water is stressing plants and animals alike.

At Lee Family Farm, cabbage and cucumber plants show clear signs of stress. Tomato plants are stunted, growing shorter than usual due to poor pollination. To cope, the Lee family has boosted irrigation, but this has raised their electricity bill by about $100 each month.

The couple grows produce on 13 acres and sells at five local farmers markets. Their efforts reflect the broader challenges faced by Minnesota farmers this season. Liz Stahl of the University of Minnesota Extension is monitoring the situation, focusing on the agricultural difficulties in the area. The hot, dry weather continues to harm crops and livestock in southwestern Minnesota. Farmers like the Lee family are adapting, but the financial and environmental costs are rising. The drought’s effects remain a pressing concern for the region’s agriculture.