Toledo Magazine: Drought challenges growers

A drought and harsh weather this summer has left many farmers in a bind. Norman Keil who owns land in Sylvania Township has lost a portion of his crops this year to drought. But as a small-scale farmer with a large diversity of plantings, he's been able to avoid the worst of the drought's effects. CLICK ANY IMAGE TO VIEW FULL PHOTO, START SLIDE SHOW.

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Norman Keil heads back to his truck after harvesting peppers on his family's farm in Sylvania Township. Though Keil has ... THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH

Enlarge | Buy This Photo A creek bed just north of Sylvania in Whiteford Township, Mich. is completely dry. Despite some rain last week, the ... THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Mr. Keil holds an eggplant that has been scorched by the sun. THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Mr. Keil harvests sweet corn on his family's property in Sylvania Township. He is the third generation to work the ... THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Mr. Keil makes his way to his fields while harvesting for a trip to the farmers' market. THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Mr. Keil harvests corn at his family farm in Sylvania Township. THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Recent rain combined with irrigation has helped keep some crops from failing, though it wasn't in time to save this pepper. THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH

Enlarge | Buy This Photo 'It's all you can do to survive,' Mr. Keil said. He's doing what he can to minimize the impact ... THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH