Isaac Worries Some Arkansas Farmers, Cheers Cattlemen

Arkansas agriculture officials say Hurricane Isaac would bring welcome rain to the state, but producers are worried about the stormy conditions that would accompany the precipitation.

Pope County Extension Agent Phil Sims said that ranchers in particular are eager for the two to five inches of rain the storm is forecast to drop over Arkansas. Cattle producers have been hit hard by the drought and many were forced to sell all or part of their herds early.

Corn and rice producers are concerned that storm winds could flatten fields that are ready for harvest.

Cotton producers are being advised to delay defoliation until after Isaac has passed.

Isaac is projected to move over the state Thursday and Friday, though the forecast could change.