Kentucky Ag Connection - March Comes in Drier for Kentucky

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March Comes in Drier for Kentucky
Kentucky Ag Connection - 03/26/2019

For the month of March, Kentucky saw below normal temperatures and precipitation. After February was uncharacteristically wet, March has offered some drier weather.

Temperatures for the period averaged 42 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees cooler than normal. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.38 inches statewide which was 1.04 inches below normal and 70% of normal.

The state experienced a very wet fall and winter which has given way to drier conditions entering the spring. The majority of farmers are still contending with slowly drying soil presenting a hindrance to fieldwork and planting preparation. The persistent precipitation and heavy downpours during February caused flooding and erosion in pockets of the state. Although March has been much more favorable weather wise, in many instances the damage was done. Farmers sprayed fields and spread fertilizer where conditions allowed.

Pasture ground was damaged due to the excessive rain last month leading to increased stress and death loss for cattle. For the month of March, livestock conditions were reported as 7% very poor, 19% poor, 34% fair, 36% good, and 4% excellent.

Hay supply has remained mostly short with some farmers reporting poor quality as well. The shortage has caused an increase in prices creating further stress. Some cattle producers have turned to alternative mixtures to meet the nutritional needs of their animals. A few producers have even had to liquidate their herds due to pasture condition coupled with high hay prices. For the month of March, hay and roughage supplies were reported as 25% very short, 47% short, 26% adequate, and 2% surplus.

Winter wheat remains in mostly good condition at this time. For the month of March, winter wheat conditions were rated as 2% very poor, 13% poor, 32% fair, 42% good, and 11% excellent.

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