A critical time in the growth of winter wheat and most crops are severely lacking the water they need.
Three-quarters of U.S. winter wheat is in severe to exceptional drought. That is according to the National Association of Wheat Growers. Right now, just 27 percent of the crop is rated good to excellent.
One Kansas farmer estimates he will get just half his normal yield this year. The results of this year’s Winter Wheat Tour showed 10 million fewer bushels than USDA predicts.
As drought expands into the Corn Belt, USDA says it is a top priority. The Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation says it is doing all it can to provide short-term relief for farmers.
She told Agri-Pulse, that it is an “all hands on deck” situation. This week’s drought monitor showed dry conditions will spread across Iowa this summer and expand to South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas.
Related:
Update on Hard Red Winter Wheat Tour-- May 18, 2022
Winter Wheat Worries: Conditions are lowest in 26 years
Forecasters are watching how drought conditions continue to negatively impact winter wheat
