Indiana farmers will have to change the types of crops they sow, the timing of plantings and adapt in other ways to the changing climate, according to a Purdue University report.
Purdue’s Climate Change Resource Center released its latest report on global warming’s expected impact on Indiana. It says the state will likely see heavier rainfall patterns, earlier springs and hotter summers in the decades ahead.
The report said warmer and wetter weather could lead to more weeds, pests and diseases. Higher overnight temperatures could also lead to a decrease in corn production. Increased temperatures could also put farm workers at a higher risk and cause livestock heat stress.
It said farmers may need to plant earlier, use different varieties of crops and install ventilation and cooling stations for livestock and workers.
