Crop Damage To NC Sweet Potatoes Still Being Assessed

Benson, NC – As damage to sweet potato crops in North Carolina resulting from floods brought by Hurricane Matthew is assessed, growers and shippers remain optimistic. The North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission (NCSPC) estimates about half of the crop had been harvested and some harvesting has resumed. Cooler, dry weather is forecasted for the coming week, which will help the situation.  A full assessment of Matthew’s impact may take a week or more. Power is expected to be back up in most areas by the end of the week, and generators are powering critical infrastructure including curing rooms. Due to the ample supply already harvested, there will be plenty of sweet potatoes available for the holidays from North Carolina.

As growers get back into accessible fields and await water in other areas to recede they have been thankful for the cooler weather and light breezes. One reason farmers are optimistic is that the state’s famous Covington sweet potato has shown strong resiliency to excessive water, including during Hurricane Joaquin in 2015.

“We are working with our members as well as state and federal agencies to ensure growers and shippers get the support they need to return to normal operations as quickly as possible,” stated Kelly McIver, Executive Director of the North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission.

The greatest reason for optimism, however, is the people. “The strength and determination of our industry in North Carolina has shined through this challenging time,” McIver added. “We have seen neighbor helping neighbor, ensuring employees and fellow farmers are safe and have the resources they need.”

Source: North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission