Missouri is facing increasingly severe drought conditions, with both topsoil and subsoil moisture levels plummeting since the last Crop Progress and Conditions report. However, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon as scattered thunderstorms are predicted across the state. While more rain is desperately needed to alleviate the drought's impact, the anticipated showers are a welcome sight for many Missourians.
According to the recent Missouri Crop progress report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistic Service (NASS), there were limited days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending June 25, 2023. Temperatures averaged 2 degrees above normal at 76.9 degrees, while precipitation remained significantly below average at 0.3 inches.
The report reveals a concerning state of moisture supply. Topsoil moisture is rated as 45% very short, 43% short, and only 12% adequate. Subsoil moisture fares similarly, with 41% very short, 40% short, and just 19% rated as adequate.
Looking at specific crops, the progress of corn silking is lagging behind the five-year average, with only 3% complete compared to the typical 5%. Corn conditions are reported as 9% very poor, 16% poor, 44% fair, 29% good, and 2% excellent.
Soybeans, on the other hand, are showing better emergence progress, with 93% already emerged compared to the five-year average of 79%. Blooming progress is at 6% versus the 5-year average of 3%. Soybean conditions are rated as 8% very poor, 19% poor, 41% fair, 30% good, and 2% excellent.
Missouri farmers and residents are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for substantial rainfall to alleviate the drought's impact on crops and overall agricultural productivity. For the complete report, including detailed statistics, refer to the provided link to access the PDF version.
For further information on NASS surveys and reports, contact the Heartland Regional Field Office at (314) 595-9594 or via email at nassrfohlr@usda.gov.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-Xander_D
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Corn, Weather