Rainfall Halts Kentucky Farm Fieldwork

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky experienced a week of unseasonably warm and exceptionally wet conditions. The state received a staggering 7.85 inches of rain, a massive 6.83 inches above the typical amount.

The average temperature for the week was 58 degrees, 6 degrees warmer than usual. Soil moisture levels are heavily saturated, with topsoil rated 79 percent surplus and subsoil at 72 percent surplus. Only 1.8 days out of the week were suitable for fieldwork.

The primary agricultural activities were limited to field preparation when the weather allowed and the seeding of tobacco transplants. Persistent unstable weather, including multiple rounds of severe storms and torrential rainfall, significantly hampered field work.

The saturated ground led to widespread flooding across the state. Consequently, very little corn or soybeans have been planted so far due to the unsuitable conditions. Farmers anticipate a rapid increase in planting once the weather stabilizes.

Tobacco transplants seeded are at 31 percent, lagging behind both last year's progress and the five-year average.

The condition of winter wheat is mostly rated as fair, as the recent wet weather has negatively impacted the crop.

Light freeze damage is reported in 23 percent of the winter wheat, with the remaining 77 percent showing no damage. Pastures are generally in good condition, although the excessive rainfall has been detrimental.

Some grazing areas have deteriorated due to flooding and livestock activity on the softened soil. Livestock are in mostly good condition after winter but would benefit from warmer and drier weather.

Currently, 42 percent of livestock feed is derived from pasture, necessitating hay supplementation. Freeze damage to alfalfa is minimal, with only 1 percent rated as severe, 2 percent moderate, and 18 percent light.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-wiyadaa