By Scout Nelson
Dickinson County farmers are facing a challenging fall harvest due to the region's hottest weather in a decade, with temperatures often reaching triple digits. The lack of rainfall and extreme heat, combined with the region's hottest climate has significantly impacted expected harvest outcomes.
Particularly hard hit are the county's soybean crops. Typically planted in the spring and harvested in the early fall, these plants have suffered under the hot weather. The lack of moisture has been so acute that many farmers are resorting to unconventional methods, such as swathing and baling the soybeans instead of the standard harvesting process, due to their excessive dryness.
Grain sorghum, known locally as milo, has managed to survive in hot, dry conditions, but has been bitten by chinch bugs. This year's weather was ideal for the infestation, causing many farmers to replant their fields, a costly and unexpected task.
In contrast, the wheat crops have been less affected by the late summer's adverse weather conditions, thanks to their earlier harvest schedule. The ongoing drought still posed challenges, depleting soil moisture reserves and potentially impacting future planting decisions and crop health.
With yields severely compromised, farmers in Dickinson County are turning to their crop insurance to help offset the financial blow. The cost of planting can be steep, and insurance payouts will be crucial in helping to recoup some of these expenses considering the reduced harvests.
The agricultural community in the county faces an uncertain future due to weather patterns, particularly rainfall. Recent challenges highlight the importance of adaptability and resilience in farming. During hardships, focus shifts to survival, sustaining livestock, resale crops, and maintaining income amidst environmental adversities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dmaroscar
Categories: Kansas, Harvesting, Weather