Irene Killed Md. Chickens, Corn

Maryland Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance issued a preliminary damage assessment to the state's agricultural community.

Hance said Tuesday that southern Maryland and the Eastern Shore sustained most of the damage. Most of the damage took place on drought-stricken corn fields where wind flattened the crop in many places, making it difficult to harvest.

Remaining sweet corn was severely damaged by wind and may not be recoverable. However, the secretary noted that most of the crop already has been harvested.

Hance also said Maryland livestock fared well overall. For the poultry industry, the Harim Group reported that the storm killed about 30,000 birds.


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