News

Drought persists in parts of Michigan

February was warmer and wetter than average for Michigan, but that only tells part of the story.

The USDA says 44% of the state remains at last abnormally dry, about steady with the end of January, and while the percentage in moderate drought declined, 10% of Michigan remains in severe drought, mostly in central, southeastern, and thumb portions of the Lower Peninsula.

Average statewide precipitation was nearly three quarters of an inch more than normal and the average temperature was up 5 degrees.

67% of the winter wheat crop is in good to excellent condition, a 4% month-to-month improvement.

Some ponding followed by freezing has been reported in the wetter portions of the state.

Other activities for the month included tending to livestock while planning for planting and maintaining equipment.

The USDA’s weekly crop progress and condition reports resume in April.