News

Wisconsin crops doing well despite regional rain shortages

Weekend storms brought rain to some Wisconsin crops, but many areas were missed and need rain.  USDA reporters say 64% of the state’s topsoil has adequate moisture, but 23% is short and 8% very short on moisture with similar subsoil conditions.

Farmers in the northeastern, southwestern, and southcentral parts of the state are ahead of other regions for third crop hay cutting.  Last week’s rainfall fell primarily in northwest, southwest, and central Wisconsin.  Statewide, the all hay condition improved last week to 73% good to excellent.

Eighty-six percent of the state’s corn is silking around eight days ahead of average, and 23% is in the dough stage.  Corn condition is unchanged from last week with 75% rated good to excellent.

Eighty-eight percent of the soybeans are blooming with 61% setting pods.  The crop is rated 72% good to excellent. Ninety-two percent of the oats are coloring, and 28% have been harvested already.