Kentucky farmers press on despite heavy rains

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky saw above-normal temperatures and much higher-than-average rainfall over the past week, largely due to Hurricane Helene. The state received 4.71 inches of precipitation, which is 3.84 inches above the weekly average.

Temperatures averaged 70°F, which is 4°F above normal. Topsoil moisture levels were reported as 9 percent very short, 13 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 13 percent surplus.

Subsoil moisture ratings stood at 10 percent very short, 21 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. On average, farmers had 3.7 days suitable for fieldwork.

Primary activities for the week included harvesting corn, soybeans, and cutting tobacco. The heavy rainfall, which exceeded what is typically seen in an entire month, brought both relief and challenges.

While the rain helped alleviate drought conditions, the strong winds caused some crops to be laid over. There is growing concern about potential damage to grain yields, and assessments will be made in the coming weeks. Additionally, many areas dealt with flooding and power outages.

Despite these challenges, farmers pushed forward with harvest activities early in the week. Both corn and soybeans remain in mostly good condition, and tobacco cutting is nearly complete, with recent rain helping improve the curing process for housed tobacco.

Reports indicate that 77 percent of tobacco has no houseburn, while 21 percent shows light houseburn, and only 2 percent reports moderate houseburn.

Winter wheat planting has started, although it is still in the early stages. Pastures across the state benefited significantly from the rain, but heavy precipitation raised concerns about potential damage from livestock traffic.

However, overall regrowth should improve. The condition of livestock remains mostly good, and late hay production may be possible for some producers concerned about winter hay supplies.

Current hay supplies are rated as 3 percent very short, 22 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus.

Kentucky farmers are hopeful for favorable weather in the coming weeks to complete the harvest season while mitigating any further damage from recent storms.

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