Many farms in western Mass. may see extended damage as flood watch continues

Farms across western Massachusetts are reporting near-total loss of their crops after this week's floods in the region, and more rain is on the way.

At least two people have died following heavy rainfall that caused significant damage in Vermont, upstate New York and western Massachusetts.

A flood watch continues in most parts of central and western Massachusetts through Friday night. The National Weather Service predicts anywhere from 1.5 to 2 inches or more rainfall for the region this weekend, which could lead to more flooding along rivers and low-lying land.

So far, the state estimates 1,000 acres of farmland in western Massachusetts have been impacted, according to Department of Agricultural Resources Commissioner Ashley Randle. She said it's possible the flooding caused more than $10 million in damage and crop loss.

The effect of this week's weather could extend into next year. Croplands could be unfit for planting if flood waters have mixed with sewage, chemicals or other pollutants. Farmers may be required to wait for those contaminants to dissipate before replanting.

The state plans to issue guidance to farmers in the coming weeks. Depending on the crop and the water sources, Randle said, the timeline for replanting could vary.