Pam Knox of the University of Georgia discussed the differences between weather and climate and how both affect agriculture. Weather focuses on short-term conditions such as temperature, rainfall, frost, and storms, while climate looks at longer-term patterns that influence farming decisions.
Knox highlighted the role of climate variability, including El Niño and La Niña, in shaping seasonal conditions across the Southeast. She also explained that Georgia has experienced significant warming since about 1970. While precipitation has not changed as dramatically, rainfall patterns are becoming more variable, with heavier rain events and longer dry periods.
These changes can create challenges for Georgia farmers, including drought, erosion, heat stress, pests, diseases, and increased water needs. At the same time, longer growing seasons may provide opportunities for double cropping and other production changes.
Knox emphasized that understanding climate trends can help farmers prepare for the future. Producers can use climate information to make better decisions about planting dates, crop selection, irrigation, pest management, and protecting livestock and outdoor workers from extreme heat. Planning ahead will be important for maintaining productive and resilient farms as Georgia’s climate continues to change.