By Andi Anderson
Ohio farmers are facing increasingly difficult conditions as a prolonged dry spell continues to impact the state’s agriculture. According to Ben Torrance, State Statistician at the USDA NASS Ohio Field Office, the week ending September 15, 2024, saw 92 percent of Ohio’s topsoil moisture rated as short to very short.
The state recorded no precipitation during the week, falling 0.82 inches below the average rainfall, with temperatures averaging 68.4°F, which is 1.9°F above normal. Farmers had 6.9 days suitable for fieldwork, providing ample time for harvesting despite the dry conditions.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 95 percent of Ohio remains abnormally dry or worse, with no improvement from the previous week.
Severe drought is affecting 18 percent of the state, while 24 percent is experiencing extreme drought or worse, highlighting the severity of the ongoing conditions.
The prolonged dryness has taken a toll on crops, with corn and soybean conditions showing declines compared to the previous week. Corn condition ratings fell, with only 39 percent of the crop rated as good to excellent. Soybeans followed a similar trend, with 40 percent rated as good to excellent, reflecting the negative impact of the drought on crop health.
Despite these challenges, farmers have made progress in harvesting. Corn silage harvest is well underway, with 79 percent already completed.
However, the dry spell has hampered the growth of hay and pasture, adding additional strain on livestock producers who rely on these resources.
The combination of high temperatures and lack of rain continues to place significant pressure on Ohio’s agriculture, with little relief in sight.
Farmers are working hard to push forward with their harvests, but the ongoing drought conditions remain a critical concern for the state’s crop yields and overall agricultural productivity.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Ohio, Harvesting