By Andi Anderson
Ohio farmers are increasingly concerned about the hot and dry conditions affecting their crops, according to Ben Torrance, State Statistician at USDA NASS, Ohio Field Office.
The most recent U.S. Drought Monitor report shows that 70 percent of the state is classified as abnormally dry or worse. Specifically, 69.2 percent of the state is experiencing moderate drought conditions, while 9.9 percent is under severe drought conditions.
Topsoil moisture conditions were rated as 14 percent very short, 48 percent short, 36 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. The average temperature for the week ending July 28 was 72.5 degrees, which is 0.7 degrees below normal.
Weather stations recorded an average of 0.46 inches of precipitation, which is 0.45 inches below the average. There were 6.2 days suitable for fieldwork during the week, allowing farmers to continue their activities despite the dry conditions.
Crops under irrigation were reported to be in good condition. Corn silking progress reached 81 percent, and dough progress reached 25 percent. Soybeans also showed progress, with 83 percent at or past blooming, and pod setting progress reached 46 percent.
The condition of the corn crop was rated 66 percent good to excellent, while the soybean crop was rated 63 percent good to excellent.
Oat progress was notable, with 97 percent headed, 85 percent mature, and 54 percent harvested. The oat crop was in very good shape, with 90 percent rated good to excellent.
The second cuttings of alfalfa and other dry hay were 96 percent and 73 percent completed, respectively. The third cuttings of alfalfa and other dry hay were 22 percent and 11 percent completed, respectively.
Pasture and range conditions were rated 38 percent good to excellent, indicating some stress due to the dry weather. However, fruit harvest remained slightly ahead of schedule, and vegetables continued to be harvested, showing some resilience to the dry conditions.
Overall, Ohio's crops are facing significant stress due to the hot and dry conditions. While some crops under irrigation are doing well, the widespread drought conditions are a cause for concern among farmers.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the impact of these conditions on the overall harvest.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zhuda
Categories: Ohio, Weather