In today’s Ag News Roundup, drought conditions continues and worsens in the Pacific Northwest, water shortage may affect spring and winter wheat exports, Darigold plans a new $550 million facility in Washington, jumping worms spotted in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, and gardening advice for hot summer days.
Drought Continues to Worsen in Oregon
From the East Oregonian, a drought disaster was declared in Umatilla County in early July. Currently, Grant, Union, Wasco, and Umatilla counties face what experts are calling a severe and continuing drought emergency.
Spring and Winter Wheat May Struggle Due to Drought
Current information from the USDA suggests that Oregon as well as Washington state wheat crops may not be favorable due to worsening drought conditions. The experts state that as much as 71% of Oregon’s crops and 36% of Washington’s crops may be affected.
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Darigold Building $550 Million Facility in Washington
From Pacific Northwest Ag Network, south-central Washington will be home to a new Darigold protein and butter operation. The facility is set to open in early 2022 with full production capacity reached a year later.
Oregon Sees Increase in Invasive Jumping Worms
The Willamette Valley region of Oregon is seeing an increase in jumping worms, according to Oregon State University Extension Service experts. The invasive worms only consume debris on top of soil and compost piles, meaning they do not burry deep and provide much-needed aeration and nutrients.
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How to Garden in the Heat
Oregon State University Extension Service has shared their top tips for gardening in extreme heat, as well as advice for gardeners who want to plan for more and prolonged heatwaves and increasingly hot summers.
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