Kentucky Ag Connection - Kentucky Tobacco Farmers Troubled Finding Laborers

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Kentucky Tobacco Farmers Troubled Finding Laborers
Kentucky Ag Connection - 09/18/2018

Kentucky experienced above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall over the past week. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.16 inches, 0.68 inches below normal. Temperatures averaged 72 degrees for the week, 2 degrees above normal. Topsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 14 percent short, 68 percent adequate and 15 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 15 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.4 out of a possible seven.

Primary activities this week included harvesting corn and soybeans, making hay, and cutting tobacco.

Several tobacco producers have noted that finding labor for harvesting is an ongoing challenge.

Northeastern counties experienced heavy rain showers and humidity at times, leading to house burn in curing tobacco.

Cattle producers are preparing for fall breeding and securing supplies.

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