{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Dry Fields, Rising Risks: Understanding Georgia\u2019s Expanding Drought","description":"Every county in Georgia is now experiencing some level of drought \u2014 and for farmers, the timing couldn\u2019t be more critical. In this episode, recorded in Watkinsville, Georgia, agricultural climatologist Pam Knox with the University of Georgia breaks down what\u2019s driving the state\u2019s widespread dry conditions and what it could mean for the upcoming growing season. From the role of La Ni\u00f1a in shaping Georgia\u2019s winter weather to the lack of tropical systems that typically supply 30\u201340% of the state\u2019s summer rainfall, Knox explains how months of below-average precipitation have left soil moisture reserves dangerously low. While recent cold snaps brought ice and snow, they delivered little meaningful moisture \u2014 and that has major implications for spring planting. We discuss: Why winter is normally Georgia\u2019s \u201crecharge season\u201d for soil moisture \u2014 and why that hasn\u2019t happened this year The difference between surface dryness and deeper soil and reservoir impacts How drought affects forage, winter grains, vegetables, blueberries, and early corn planting The difficult irrigation decisions farmers face during water shortages Lessons from past droughts, including crop losses during pollination What growers should watch in the coming weeks as soil temperatures rise Knox also shares trusted climate and drought monitoring resources for producers looking to stay informed as conditions evolve. If you farm, work in agriculture, or simply want a clearer understanding of how large-scale climate patterns translate to real-world impacts on Georgia\u2019s fields and food supply, this conversation provides timely insight grounded in science and experience. \ud83c\udfa7 Tune in for a practical, straight-talk look at Georgia\u2019s drought outlook \u2014 and what may lie ahead. ","author_name":"Georgia Farm Bureau's: Growing On Podcast","author_url":"https:\/\/www.gfb.org\/media-and-publications\/growingon.cms","html":"