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Drought not keeping people at home for holiday, but hurting people who rely on Mother Nature

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says North Alabama is experiencing extreme drought.

WAFF 48's Jeanie Powell and her photographer spent Memorial Day in Guntersville.

The consensus was, when it comes to the waterways, it's not bringing anyone down.

On the other hand, those who rely on Mother Nature are suffering big time.  

While in the mountains, you can clearly see smoke settling in from the east, the hazy and dry conditions aren't dampening too many spirits.

For those who ventured out to enjoy the cool rush of waves or who vowed to obtain the perfect tan, it's just something you've gotta deal with.

Greg Moore, who volunteers at Guntersville State Park, says, "I can tell there's smoke in the air but nothing you can do about it.  You down just keep on going."

A ranger tells us burning's not completely outlawed at Guntersville State Park; it's alright as long as its contained to small cooking or pedestal grills.

Moore says, "The beach has been packed.  The park is packed, so it hasn't slowed anybody down."

Still, in some wooded areas and for good reason, burning's completely banned.

This extreme drought is not only affecting people's plans when it comes grilling, it's also taking a big toll on produce."

For the past 11 years, Ertis Ray Hill has set up shop at the intersection of 227 and 414 in Marshall County.

From apples to potatoes, he's got anything you can imagine, but it now comes with a higher price tag.

Hill says, "Well the price has almost doubled on most things."

But he still has a saving grace.

Jeanie asked, "What is your biggest seller?"

He says, "Tomatoes."

Jeanie then asked how the drought's hurting that particular crop.

Hill's response was surprising, but good:  "They're good right now."

Even though you can still grill in some local parks, use the utmost caution especially when disposing of ashes.

Before you take to the flame, you need to check with a park or forestry official to make sure it's safe to burn.