The Cedar Fork River is running noticeably low this month as the valley enters its sixth week without meaningful rain, exposing gravel bars that are usually underwater and worrying farmers heading into the last cutting of hay.
Longtime residents say the river always dips in late summer, but few remember the shallows reaching this far up toward the old mill dam. Irrigation demand has climbed just as the flow has fallen.
Who is feeling it
- Hay and vegetable growers relying on river-fed irrigation lines
- Anglers, who report warmer, slower water in the usual pools
- Weekend paddlers, who are dragging boats over the shallow runs below the bridge
Agricultural agents are urging growers to check pump intakes and to avoid drawing the shallow pools down further during the hottest part of the day. A stretch of cooler, wetter weather would ease the pressure, but forecasters offer no firm promises.
The Gazette will keep an eye on the river gauge and report any changes as the season turns.
Related: Around the Valley · storm cleanup on the old rail trail
Further reading: About droughts
Author
