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Wisconsin farmers focus on hay harvest with some planting unfinished

 

Wisconsin farmers spent much of last week working on first-crop hay harvesting.  Far northern and northwestern parts of the state had dry conditions before last week’s rains, and USDA reporters say the quality and the yield is lower than expected.  Central and north-central farmers report very good alfalfa.  Several reporters say the rains caused them to harvest the hay past it’s prime.

John Eron owns a custom harvesting business and says Monday’s efforts to put up hay in the Mosinee area were slowed by the lack of sunshine, even though it’s windy.  “It’s staying overcast up there and it’s nice to have this weather when it’s ready for chopping but not when you need it to dry some first, with dandelions in it.”

There were just over 5 days suitable for fieldwork last week.  As of Sunday, 43% of the state’s alfalfa hay has been harvested.

Eighty-nine percent of corn and 79% of soybeans are planted.  88% of potatoes are planted, and 17% of winter wheat has headed.