Delaware Declares Drought Watch as Water Levels Drop Statewide

Listen to the Evening Delmarva Farm Report Update — June 3, 2026

DELMARVA — Delaware has entered a drought watch as water levels continue to decline across the state. Governor Matt Meyer made the declaration Wednesday following recommendations from the state Water Supply Coordinating Council.

Kent and Sussex counties are experiencing the most severe impacts from the dry conditions. DNREC Secretary Greg Patterson said Delaware would need 21 inches of rain over the next 3 months to restore water supplies to typical levels.

Residents are being urged to voluntarily cut back on outdoor water use and conserve water indoors. The state’s open burning ban remains in effect through September 30.

Trade

Federal officials confirmed Wednesday that China has started buying new crop soybeans from the U.S. Deputy Agriculture Secretary Stephen Vaden announced the purchases during a Wall Street Journal event, marking a notable development in trade relations.

Markets

Cattle futures took significant losses Wednesday at the Chicago Merc. August live cattle dropped $1.80 to close at $347.85. Feeder cattle fell even harder, with August contracts losing $5.80 to close at $342.62.

Locally, corn at Laurel Grain Company is bringing $4.77 a bushel for July delivery. Soybeans there are at $10.94 for July.

Forecast

Temperatures will hold at 80° this evening under sunny skies with southeast winds at 10 mph. Clear skies tonight with a low near 60°. Thursday looks pleasant with sunshine and a high of 76°. Clear to mostly clear Thursday night with a low around 64°.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, June 3, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.