USDA Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services Undersecretary Michael Scuse is touring drought-stricken farms tomorrow and Thursday to survey the damage.

Farmers in Indiana experienced a dry and mild spring which led to early planting in many parts of the state. Lack of rainfall and the extreme heat complicated the growing season and pollination of the crop, thus leaving Hoosier farmers in a difficult situation.

The public is invited to accompany Scuse on his visits to ask questions. His itinerary is as follows:

8:30 a.m. tomorrow, Allen County Farmer Randy Schaefer
Undersecretary Scuse will visit with Mr. Schaefer and tour moisture-depleted corn fields in Allen County. Mr. Schaefer is chairperson of the Allen County FSA Committee, and raises corn, soybeans, wheat, and alfalfa hay as well as beef cattle in Allen and Whitley counties. He also experienced a wind storm on June 29, 2012. Farm wagons will be available for transport to corn fields.

2:30 p.m. tomorrow, White County Farmers John & Brian Scott and Robert Smock
Undersecretary Scuse will visit with John and Brian Scott and Robert Smock and tour moisture-depleted corn fields in White County. The Scotts raise corn, soybeans, popcorn and wheat in White and Carroll Counties. Mr. Smock raises corn, soybeans and wheat in White County and serves as Vice Chairperson of the White County FSA Committee.

10:15 a.m. Thursday, Johnson County Farmer Merrill Kelsay
Undersecretary Scuse will visit with Mr. Kelsay and tour moisture-depleted farm fields in Johnson County. The Kelsays operate a six-generation dairy, raise corn, soybeans, wheat and hay, and operate year-round on-farm educational experiences. Farm wagons will be available for transport to fields.

Source: United States Department of Agriculture