By Andi Anderson
Drought conditions in Ohio continued to take a toll on crops and pastures during the week ending September 8, 2024, according to Ben Torrance, State Statistician for USDA NASS, Ohio Field Office.
With topsoil moisture conditions rated 87 percent short to very short, farmers across the state are facing significant challenges. The week saw an average temperature of 64.5 degrees, which was 3.9 degrees below normal, and weather stations recorded only 0.43 inches of precipitation, falling 0.24 inches below the average.
The most recent U.S. Drought Monitor report revealed that 95 percent of Ohio was experiencing abnormally dry conditions or worse, marking a 20-point increase from the previous week.
Nine percent of the state is now in severe drought, and 22 percent is facing extreme drought or worse. These conditions are particularly impactful in central and southern Ohio, where crops like corn and soybeans are struggling during the critical grain fill stage.
Despite the ongoing drought, some marginal improvements were noted. Corn was rated 49 percent good to excellent, and soybeans were rated 47 percent good to excellent, both showing slight gains compared to the previous week.
However, the limited rainfall has hindered regrowth of hay and pasture, leaving livestock producers with limited feed options. Corn silage harvest continued, with 56 percent of the harvest already completed.
The continued lack of moisture is putting Ohio farmers in a difficult position as they head toward harvest season. The combination of below-average temperatures and insufficient rainfall is exacerbating the drought's impact, particularly for those managing crops and livestock.
Without significant precipitation, crop yields and pasture conditions are expected to remain compromised, posing challenges for agricultural producers across the state.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zhuda
Categories: Ohio, Weather