Georgia drought worsens; farmers, waterways feel strain

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Drought conditions are worsening across Georgia, putting pressure on rivers and lakes and adding new strain to farmers during planting season.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows 98% of the state is in some level of drought. At least 18% is in exceptional drought, the most severe category. The U.S. Drought Monitor report was released on Thursday.

Forecasters do not expect meaningful rain in the coming days. Temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 80s and near 90 degrees, increasing fire danger and further drying vegetation.

Along the Chattahoochee River north of Atlanta, the dry stretch is raising concerns about water levels. Low rainfall can reduce river flow and contribute to dropping lake levels, including at Lake Lanier, a major water source for metro Atlanta.

In Morgan County, farmer Lee Nunn said the drought is already affecting day-to-day decisions in the field.

“That’s almost like a brick-hard Georgia red clay. It’s super dry,” Nunn said, describing the ground conditions.

Nunn said the dry clay is also hard on equipment.

“It’s almost like running a big piece of sandpaper over,” he said. “It is so dry.”

The drought is hitting during planting season for major Georgia crops, including cotton, peanuts and wheat. Nunn said crop stress can reduce yield and affect quality.

“Less weight means less yield, and that means less money,” he said.

In Oglethorpe, farmer Donald Chase said irrigation can help protect crops, but it increases costs and can strain water resources if the drought continues.

“If you see pivots running, understand that is raising the cost of producing that crop,” Chase said.

The next U.S. Drought Monitor update is expected next week.