News
Mud and ice make March field work difficult in Michigan
The USDA reports a wetter and slightly warmer than average March for the state of Michigan has made it hard to begin field work.
Statewide average precipitation was nearly 2.5 inches, almost 1.9 inches above normal. But while only 2% of the state’s topsoil moisture is considered in short supply, 53% of the state is experiencing abnormally dry conditions or worse- mainly in the southern counties of the upper peninsula and northern counties of the lower peninsula. Meanwhile, farmers in counties further south are reporting excess moisture and tile ditches running where frost has thawed.
The USDA rates Michigan’s winter wheat crop at 43% good to excellent for the end of March, a significant improvement from just 25% in February.
The USDA’s weekly crop progress and condition reports resume next week.
