Abnormal dryness spread across the United States this week. While this was beneficial for many in the growing season, the latest U.S. drought monitor has a lot more color on it now.
Farmers in the Great Basin, Northern Rockies, and Southeast saw relief, with all levels of extreme drought now out of those regions. However, our drought-stricken friends in the Plains region saw up to ten inches of rain in some areas, causing a two-category improvement in drought conditions in southeast Nebraska, but obviously, more precipitation is still needed to help with the long-term drought.
While dry weather is giving a boost to crop emergence, it is not helping out the hay crop.
The University of Missouri Extension told Brownfield Ag News hay producers started baling last week but are finding that crop yield is only a quarter of what is normal. The Extension recommends managing fields consistently from here on out — and moisture is needed.
The latest USDA Crop Progress Report has the first alfalfa cutting 59 percent complete in the state.
