Bite-Sized Damage, Big-Time Stress: Deer Pressure in Cotton is Relentless
ISSN 2158-9429
Volume 18, Issue 2 - December 2025
Editor: Bindu Poudel-Ward
Abstract
White-tailed deer are a growing concern for [STATE] cotton producers. Their feeding habits increasingly damage crops and create significant financial and emotional strain. While the economic impact of deer predation on cotton has been documented, little work has examined its effect on the health and well-being of cotton farmers. We assessed the levels of sleepiness, fatigue, and stress experienced by farmers due to deer-related crop damage. Standardized scales and open-ended responses were analyzed to quantify physical and emotional impacts. Results indicate that deer damage is not only an agronomic crisis but also a significant issue affecting the health and well-being of farmers. Many growers report feeling burned out, helpless, and considering stopping cotton production. These findings suggest the urgent need for holistic solutions that address both crop protection and farmer well-being.
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