By Daniel Fowler, NAICC president
In late June, I wrote, “I’ve never seen a year like this, have you?” That phrase echoed through fields and farm shops across northeastern North Carolina as record-setting rains threw planting season into chaos. Saturated soils and constant rainfall led to poor stands, multiple replanting efforts and difficult decisions regarding abandonment and prevented planting insurance.
Nearly two-thirds of the way through July, the rain hadn’t stopped. Measurable precipitation fell on 11 of the first 20 days, causing delays in fungicide, herbicide and insecticide applications. Resprays were common as rainfall quickly followed treatments. Still, growers didn’t fall far behind.
In fact, despite all odds, the 2025 crop is showing signs of strength. Steady rain paired with heat is helping late-planted fields align more closely with the normal calendar. A few fields remain unplanted, green with grass and weeds, reminders of just how unpredictable nature can be, but across the region, thousands of acres reveal stories of grit, adaptability and unwavering commitment. Some crops aren’t what was originally planted, but growers made timely adjustments, and now those fields are full of promise.
This season’s landscape paints a vivid picture of what makes farming so remarkable: endurance in the face of uncertainty and innovation under pressure. While 2025 has been a roller coaster of setbacks, it’s also proven the extraordinary resilience of northeastern North Carolina growers.
Farming isn’t just about weathering storms; it’s about navigating them. And this year, that resilience has truly taken root.
The National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants (NAICC) is the national society of agriculture professionals who provide research and advisory services to clients for a fee. Daniel Fowler is the current NAICC president and has worked as an independent crop consultant for more than 20 years. For more, visit NAICC.org.
