Source: NCSU COOPERATIVE EXTENSION, 9/19/18


Hurricane Florence has caused catastrophic damage across parts of North Carolina primarily from flooding but also from wind damage. The impacts of this damage on the soybean crop will vary widely across the state depending on a variety of factors discussed below. We have a wide range in soybean maturity across the state. Some early maturity group soybeans were harvested prior to Hurricane Florence, some are ready for harvest as soon as fields are accessible, and some later maturing varieties are just moving into seed development. Dr. Dunphy has stated that soybeans can withstand some time under flooded conditions, but 3-4 days of flooded conditions will likely cause irreversible damage and subsequent yield declines. More information from Dr. Dunphy on flooded soybeans following Hurricane Matthew can be found in the videos linked here: https://soybeans.ces.ncsu.edu/2016/10/concerns-with-flooded-soybeans/
This update was prepared by Rachel Vann, Dominic Reisig, and Lindsey Thiessen
Here are some points to consider for hurricane affected soybean fields:
1. Crop Insurance: If your soybean crop is insured, it is important to check with your crop insurance adjuster as quickly as possible to decide on the best plan moving forward with your damaged soybean crop. Beyond the potential yield and quality declines caused by flooding, submerged soybean grain may be unmarketable due to U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines on soybeans that have been flooded by off-farm bodies of water. More information on these topics are available from Dr. Nick Piggott at the following link: https://cals.ncsu.edu/are-extension/2018/09/18/marketing-flooded-grain-after-florence/

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