Farmers in southern and northwestern parts of Wisconsin are grappling with the consequences of an unusually dry spring. Over the past three months, certain regions have received up to three inches less rainfall than usual, raising concerns within the agricultural community.
The U.S. Drought Monitor's assessment of Wisconsin reveals extensive areas of abnormally dry conditions in the state's northwest and most of its southern half. In Kenosha County's far southeastern corner, a moderate drought has taken hold.
Randal Rossi, a farmer from Kenosha County, expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, "It's extremely dry. We've missed some rain, and we just must hope for rain. You can't change the weather; you just wait for it to rain. If it doesn't rain, it's going to be a problem."
Jerry Clark, the UW-Extension Crops and Soils Educator for Chippewa, Dunn, and Eau Claire Counties, highlighted the challenges faced by farmers in managing weeds due to the lack of rainfall.
With some herbicides requiring water for activation, farmers have resorted to irrigation on lighter soils, not only for crop management but also for weed control purposes. Clark explained that the young crops are desperately searching for water, causing their roots to grow deeper into the soil.
As the dry conditions persist, Wisconsin farmers remain hopeful for much-needed rainfall to alleviate the challenges they currently face.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-BanksPhotos
Categories: Wisconsin, Weather