Ohio Ag Connection - Ohio Faces Drought Concerns as Temperatures Soar and Dry Spell Persists

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Ohio Faces Drought Concerns as Temperatures Soar and Dry Spell Persists
Ohio Ag Connection - 06/07/2023

Ohio is currently grappling with a challenging situation as soaring temperatures and a prolonged drought pose a significant threat to crops and farmers statewide. The U.S. Drought Monitor's latest update highlights the region's minimal rainfall, resulting in abnormally dry conditions and moisture levels well below average.

The recent data from the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates a concerning surge in dry conditions, with 74% of Ohio now classified as abnormally dry. This marks a drastic increase from the previous week's figure of less than 3%, instilling worry and uncertainty among farmers whose livelihoods rely on agriculture.

The Crop Progress report reveals alarming statistics regarding topsoil moisture conditions, with 30% rated as very short and 46% as short. Subsoil moisture conditions also reflect the severity of the situation, with 10% classified as very short and 45% as short. These figures underscore the pressing need for adequate rainfall to alleviate the moisture deficit.

Farmers across the state are experiencing the impact of the dry spell, with planting and crop emergence being adversely affected. Corn planting progress lags behind, although some farmers managed to complete their planting during Memorial Day weekend. However, 5% of the state's corn acreage still awaits planting. On a positive note, corn emergence has been relatively solid, surpassing the average for this time of year, with 80% of the crop having emerged.

Soybean planting progress shows only 6% of the crop remaining to be planted. The current planting pace exceeds the five-year average, with 94% of soybean planting completed. Soybean emergence has also surpassed previous years, with 74% of the crop already emerged. Challenges such as soil crusting in western counties have hindered crop emergence.

The dry spell's impact extends to winter wheat, which has reached the heading stage, with 89% of the acreage in that phase. Although wheat harvest has yet to commence, the crop's condition is slightly better than last year, offering some reassurance to farmers.

Hay and forage production in the state face challenges as well. The first cuttings of alfalfa and other dry hay are 83% and 78% completed, respectively. Concerns about potential hay shortages are rising due to the lack of moisture.

Ohio's pasture and range conditions are currently rated as fair to good, with 7% of the land classified as excellent. However, the dry spell poses a risk to the quality and availability of grazing areas.

Looking ahead, the forecast predicts a continuation of dry weather, with temperatures cooling to near or below average as a cold front moves in from Canada. Although scattered showers may occur, high-pressure systems are expected to dominate. Towards the end of the week, there is a possibility of showers, but precipitation amounts are anticipated to be less than 1 inch.

Ohio's farmers closely monitor the situation, hoping for much-needed rainfall to alleviate the effects of the ongoing dry spell. The successful growth of crops, the well-being of livestock, and the livelihoods of farmers depend on the timely arrival of precipitation to ensure a prosperous growing season.

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