LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - Arkansas farmers are feeling the effects of drought conditions and are experiencing some pest problems, but growers were able to plant early and are heading for an early harvest.
Agriculture officials said Tuesday that even farms that got three inches of rain last week still have to irrigate.
On the plus side, rice, corn, cotton and soybeans are all heading for an early harvest. With the crops coming in early, growers won't have to worry about late-season drought and pressure from weeds, pests and disease.
But the mild spring enabled some weeds and insects to flourish. Some soybean growers have seen their crops damaged from pests and early herbicide application.
Irrigation is costly for growers because of the diesel needed to fuel the pumps.
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