Tennessee governor tours flooded crops, promises support

DYERSBURG, Tenn. (AP) — Gov. Bill Lee took an aerial tour of flooded crop land in western Tennessee and promised support to farmers struggling with when to plant.

Lee flew over Lauderdale and Dyer counties Wednesday. The region is used to flooding, but officials this year say it’s rare to see waterlogged fields go into July. Farmers say they have been wrestling with flooded fields since October.

Agriculture officials say nearly 25% to 30% of the counties are experiencing flooding.

From the air, large swaths of muddy water could be seen in empty fields from the helicopter.

Lee said it was important for him to visit the area to raise awareness about the issue and to work on coordinating with various agencies to mitigate any potential financial losses.