News

Wisconsin crops get some relief from scattered rains

Multiple scattered rain events last week brought much-needed moisture to Wisconsin’s crops, but the rainfall amounts were varied.  USDA reporters say some areas in central Wisconsin had from 3-8 inches of rain with isolated flooding, while other areas barely saw a sprinkle.

Topsoil moisture statewide is rated 10% very short, 19% short, 65% adequate, and 6% surplus. 

Eighty-eight percent of Wisconsin’s corn is now at the dough stage or beyond, which is 11 days ahead of average.  Forty-five percent of corn is now dented, and 80% of the crop is rated good to excellent.  Some corn silage harvesting has begun.

Ninety-six percent of the soybeans are setting pods, which is around eight days ahead of average.  Twenty percent of the beans are changing color, and 82% of the crop is rated good to excellent.

Ninety-four percent of the oats are harvested.  The potato harvest is now 28% finished.  Winter wheat planting is 12% complete, which is 13 days ahead of average. 

The third cutting of alfalfa is 92% complete and the fourth cutting is 22% finished.  Seventy-four percent of all hay is in good to excellent condition, with pastures 62% good to excellent statewide.