By Blake Jackson
Kentucky experienced above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation over the past week. Precipitation for the week totaled 0.15 inches, 0.65 inches below normal. Temperatures averaged 51 degrees for the week, 4 degrees above normal.
Dry conditions allowed for harvest to continue regularly. The corn crop is 95% harvested, and harvest of soybeans is 87% complete for the year. Seeding of winter wheat also continues and is 83% complete.
Lack of rainfall has slightly delayed germination but does not seem to be having too much of a negative impact on the condition of the crop so far.
Pastures continue to be stressed due to the dry and warmer-than-usual conditions. Occasional frosts have also stunted pasture growth. Reports show 46% of pasture in very poor or poor condition, compared to the five-year average of 32% for this time of year.
With dry conditions this year, producers had to rely on hay to supplement feed earlier than usual. Lower-than-normal hay stocks are a possibility for the coming winter months.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-grafvision
Categories: Kentucky, Weather