Drought could mean higher food prices

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Concerns are growing among Ohio farmers as abnormally dry conditions and triple-digit temperatures scorch already parched fields, stunting much of the state's corn and soybean crops.

Temperatures near 100 or above and a lack of rainfall have left many farmers projecting reduced crop yields that eventually could mean higher consumer prices.

The extremely dry conditions prompted a meeting Friday of the state's Drought Assessment Committee to plan Ohio's response. The committee headed by the Ohio Emergency Management Agency includes state and federal agencies.

The latest report by the U.S. Drought Monitor that tracks conditions throughout the country classifies most of Ohio in the moderate drought stage with much of the rest of the state experiencing abnormally dry conditions. The indicator lists a portion of northwest Ohio under severe drought conditions.