Drought conditions across the state cause rises in food prices

BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — The state finally got some rain during the weekend of July 20, 2024, but it was nowhere near enough to break the consistent drought that most of the state finds itself in.

The drought, which has already caused setbacks for local farmers, is causing issues for everyday people – especially in grocery stores.

90% of the state is at least in moderate drought conditions.

These conditions are responsible for the recent rise in food prices, according to David Richmond, an Agriculture Extension Agent with West Virginia University.

He said the drought is causing an imbalance in supply and demand – especially in one key area.

“Those farmers that’s producing the livestock may be having to buy supplemental feed due to the lack of the grass in the pastures, and so they have to recoup their costs on that. That’s gonna drive the prices up,” said Richmond.

Richmond said when farmers have to supplement, consumers feel that pain in their pockets.

He also said not to expect prices to fall anytime soon.

“Of course, prices will jump up tremendously very quickly and then they’re slow to come back to their normal rates, so, I mean, we’re probably gonna have these prices for at least for two or three more months. It all depends on how the rest of the summer goes also,” said Richmond.

Richmond said a second cutting of hay is not likely, so farmers will have to shell out even more money to keep their livestock fed.

This means prices will stay high and possibly even rise more to allow famers to recoup their losses.

Richmond said there is only one thing you can bank on.

“Always said, ever since I did this job that you can’t mess with Mother Nature, and she’s always throwing us a curveball,” said Richmond.

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