Soil carbon will be depleted during droughts, depriving crops of an essential element of productivity.[1] In 2012, the US experienced a drought that greatly reduced yield of key crops and livestock in the Great Plans and Midwest region.[13] Average yields of commodity crops (corn, soybean, rice) will decline due to the increased temperature whereas other crops (wheat, hay) could potentially increase yield due to anticipated rainfall in certain regions.[13] Effects on horticulture crops will be variable.[13]