In many West Tennessee counties, including Henderson, pastures that were seeded this fall have not emerged. Cow-calf producers are purchasing protein supplements to offset the poor grazing conditions. Even in East Tennessee, many farmers had no second cutting of hay, which normally takes place in August. Third cuttings have been virtually non-existent, said John Goddard, Extension leader in Loudon County. Although light showers fell on the Plateau in late October, Roger Thackston, Extension leader in Cumberland County, said that it was much too little, too late.
Pastures are poor to fair in most parts of the county.
Tobacco growers in the Upper Cumberland counties experienced a double whammy in October. First, late tobacco growth was stunted because of a lack of moisture. Then the crop was hit by the freeze early in the month. Normally you top it the first week of September, and most people have it cut and in the barn by the first week of October. As soybean harvest continues, the average yield is 10 bushels an acre below normal for many Gibson County farmers, according to Philip Shelby, a county Extension agent.