Indiana Drought Spreads

While much of the State received some rain showers over the week, it was not enough to alleviate drought conditions in Southern Indiana, according to Greg Matli, Indiana State Statistician for the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. The statewide average temperature was 38.1 degrees, 1.2 degrees below normal. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, about half of the State is experiencing drought conditions, with 2.5 percent in severe drought. Statewide precipitation was 0.75 inches, below average by 0.27 inches. There were 4.8 days available for fieldwork for the week ending November 27, down 1.2 days from the previous week.

Harvest has wrapped up across the State. Dry soils in the South allowed farmers to complete fall tillage and maintenance projects in the fields, while rains in the North slowed fieldwork. Winter wheat emergence remains hindered in some areas by drying soils. Farmers are working on pre-income tax records, putting harvest equipment away for the season, repairing equipment, and hauling grain.

This issue concludes the weekly reports for the 2016 season. Special thanks to the dedicated County Extension Educators, Farm Service Agency county directors, and farmers and ranchers who supplied the necessary information. Your time and effort made this publication possible and ensured an up-to-date and accurate representation of Indiana agriculture.