Red flag warnings have now been issued across several states in the Midwest.
Dry weather and winds are making for dangerous fire weather from South Dakota to Missouri. The National Weather Service warns that any fires that develop will spread rapidly and does not recommend outdoor burning.
The agency also warns that high winds may make travel difficult for high-profile vehicles like semis and tractor-trailers.
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The Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation has a wildfire disaster relief fund in place to help producers in need that are being impacted by ongoing wildfires like the Smokehouse Creek Fire.
USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey says we are heading into spring rather quickly and ahead of schedule, which could have negative implications for small grains and blooming fruit crops.
As Texas cattle producers prod the possibility of expansion, USDA weather experts caution that recovery from long-term drought conditions will be a slow process.
Both imports and exports are moving through the Panama Canal at a slower pace as the ag industry continues to deal with drought-related restrictions.
As the USDA tracks how Plant Hardiness Zones are slowly shifting across the country, they are also adjusting their recommendations for gardeners when it comes to perennial plants. The data is also used the by Risk Management Agency to determine crop insurance rates.
