Ohio farmers face fire risks as dry and dusty conditions persist

By Andi Anderson

Ohio farmers are facing increasing concerns over field fires as hot and dry conditions persist across the state. According to the USDA NASS Ohio Field Office, topsoil moisture conditions were rated 95 percent short to very short for the week ending September 22, with an average temperature of 72.0 degrees—9.0 degrees above normal.

The state recorded only 0.08 inches of precipitation, which is 0.64 inches below the average, leaving 6.8 days suitable for fieldwork.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report indicated that 98 percent of Ohio is experiencing abnormally dry conditions or worse, marking a three percentage point increase from the previous week.

Severe drought conditions are affecting 29 percent of the state, while 30 percent is facing extreme drought or worse, raising significant concerns for both crop and fire management.

Farmers are slowly beginning the harvest season, but the lack of moisture continues to be a challenge. Ninety-four percent of the corn crop has reached or passed the dent stage, with 60 percent mature and 10 percent harvested for grain.

Corn silage harvesting was at 87 percent completion. Soybeans are also progressing, with 78 percent dropping leaves and 14 percent harvested. However, corn and soybean conditions are struggling, with only 37 percent and 35 percent rated good to excellent, respectively.

Additional agricultural activities included the fourth cutting of alfalfa hay, which was 66 percent complete, and other dry hay, which was 43 percent complete. Winter wheat planting has just begun, with 4 percent of the crop in the ground.

Pasture and range conditions are poor, with only 2 percent rated good to excellent, reflecting the ongoing challenges caused by the drought.

As the harvest continues, Ohio farmers are keeping a close watch on the weather, hoping for rainfall to alleviate dry conditions and reduce fire risks.

The ongoing drought not only threatens crop yields but also places additional stress on farm operations, highlighting the need for careful management during this critical period.

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