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Wet weather dampening hopes for Michigan's dry bean growers

Michigan Agri-Business Association

This has not been a good June for Michigan’s dry bean crop.

Dry beans are primarily grown in the Thumb region.  Dry beans account for about $250 million in Michigan’s agricultural economy.

But heavy rains this month have slowed planting by about 25%. Many of the crops that are the ground have also been damaged by the higher-than-normal rainfall.

“It’s just way too early to assess what impact it will have,” says Jim Byrum, the president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association. “But suffice to say it’s not going to be a positive start to the growing season this year.”

Dry bean farmers are now facing a time crunch. If they wait, the crop may come in late and delay planting of their late-summer wheat crop. Farmers must also decide if they will file for crop insurance. Every day they wait means less money in compensation. 

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.
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