Experts discuss the effects of climate change on crop conditions

JACKSON, Tenn. — Some scientist believe climate change is making conditions worse for certain crops, while improving productivity for others.

A panel of three scientists gathered today, April 9, to discuss the issue.

They shared that agricultural production is being affected—and may soon be even further—by climate-driven shifts in air quality.

This includes changing carbon dioxide and ozone levels; water quality and quantity; and soil health.

Another topic of conversation involved the key point that climate is not the same as weather.

“We experienced a snowfall in July in Washington state which is a reality that happened, that does not indicate that climate change is not real,” said Dr. Courtney Leisner, Scientist and Assistant Professor at Virginia Tech.

Dr. Leisner reiterates that climate change discussion should center on global climate over 30 years not individual weather month to month or year to year.

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