Midwestern crops, pastures affected by drought; shipping on the Mississippi River decreased tow capacity
1/19/2024 1:01:18 AM
CATEGORIES:
Agriculture
Plants & Wildlife
Water Supply & Quality
AFFECTED AREAS:
Iowa
Illinois
Missouri
Start Date: 7/6/2023
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Drought was taking a toll on Midwestern crops, pastures and range, causing some ranchers to sell cattle. The level of the Mississippi River was dropping, lowering the tow capacity for barges by 10% to 20% to avoid running aground. Navigation issues on the Mississippi River have more Midwestern cargo being transported via trains and semis.
The Gazette (Cedar Rapids, Iowa), July 6, 2023
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