News

Warmer and drier in Wisconsin

Looks like Wisconsin farmers are finally getting some good growing weather.  Some reports of killing frost in Chippewa, Rusk and Buffalo Counties with frost damage reported in a few others.  But temperatures warmed into the 70’s and even low 80’s over the weekend with only scattered showers.  Topsoil moistures fell from 19 percent surplus a week ago to 15 percent surplus.  The forecast is calling for temperatures in the 70’s, maybe the 80’s by the end of this week with little or no rain.

As of Sunday, 72 percent of the Badger State corn crop is dented with 19 percent mature.  While both numbers represent a significant increase from a week ago they are still 10 points behind the five-year average for denting and 16 points behind on maturity for this date.  The condition of the crop is holding steady at 72 percent good to excellent.  18 percent of the corn silage has been chopped, should be 48 percent by now.

70 percent of the soybeans are turning color with 27 percent dropping leaves.  Should be 80 percent turning color and 43 percent dropping leaves by this date.  The beans are rated 73 percent good to excellent condition.

The oats-for-grain are 92 percent harvested, should be completed by now.  8 percent of the winter wheat is planted and 54percent of the potatoes have been harvested.  The potatoes are rated 69 percent in good to excellent condition.  The cranberry harvest has started in Portage County with good yields reported.

Read the full NASS report here: