https://foodandcity.org
Low water levels are limiting the amount of grain that can be shipped via barges on the Mississippi River.
Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says nearly 99% of the water in the Mississippi comes from northern states, but after little to no rain its hindering agriculture shipments.
“About 39% fewer barges have made it down river to the ports below the (Mississippi River) bridge so in other words from Baton Rouge all the way to the mouth. Those barges that have made it are short loaded,” said Strain.
Strain says barges are vital in getting commodities from one place to another. They are now looking for different shipment options.
“We need to have multiple forms of transportation, not only barges, but also we need to really reinstitute our ability to take rail and move rail from north Louisiana to our export facility down river,” said Strain.
Barge rates are expected to increase due to the demand. Strain says this will effect consumers financially for different reasons.
“We’re going to see a continuation of the higher food prices for a number of reasons. One the erratic weather we’ve had, the damage both from drought, and from excessive rain, as well as supply chain disruptions,” Strain.
Louisiana farmers will also face financial disadvantages as the increased cost of shipping continues to rise.
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