The growing problem of drugs is reaching many farmers who have become targets for theft of a crop fertilizer that is a key ingredient in the manufacture of an illegal drug.
Anhydrous ammonia is a common liquid fertilizer often used on cotton.
It is also a necessary chemical in the manufacture of crystal methamphetamine, an illegal drug. It is stored in pressurized tanks in fields and is highly corrosive, burning skin if it comes in contact. Ann Ruscoe, Coahoma County agent with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said farmers in her area are experiencing a big problem with people stealing the fertilizer and manufacturing the drug. After taking it from the tank, they often go out into the field or area nearby and finish the manufacturing process. Ruscoe said farmers are being encouraged to use up their supplies of the ammonia and not leave excess fertilizer in the tank for the next growing season.