Hail damage leaves farmers with decision

Hail
storm
damage
crops
replant

To replant or not to replant, that is the question for many

  • This corn field three miles north of Hampton sustained heavy damage in the June 7 storm which swept through the area. Many area farmers are now contemplating whether to replant or try to get as much out of the damaged crop as possible.
    This corn field three miles north of Hampton sustained heavy damage in the June 7 storm which swept through the area. Many area farmers are now contemplating whether to replant or try to get as much out of the damaged crop as possible.

    Severe weather struck Hamilton County with back-to-back storms three days apart last week, with the bulk of the damage reported in area fields hit hard by hail stones as big as golf balls.
    Massive storms were tracked all across the state on June 4 and again on June 7, according to regional weather experts, bringing high winds, heavy rain and sporadic hail storms with them. Local insurance agents report that roofs and vehicles are being inspected for damage that may lead to claims, though by far the more severe impact was being reported from the ag community.
    Director of Emergency Management in Hamilton County Kirt Smith watched the storm June 7 just outside the safety of his pickup truck northeast of Hampton. As he was following the storm from the east, he was soon caught up in the hail that rocketed towards the earth.
    Smith was able to find shelter behind a nearby building, though his vehicle was not so lucky. His taillights, the brake light in the cabin and both of his side mirrors were broken. 

    To read more, please see this week's print or e-edition.