September 8, 2023

 

Iowa, US crops face decline as heat and dryness persist

 

The US state of Iowa, a major agricultural hub, is grappling with a significant deterioration in its primary crops over the past two weeks, as relentless heat and dry spells persist, Iowa Capital Dispatch reported.

 

According to a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) report, the situation has raised concerns among farmers and officials. Iowa experienced virtually no rainfall in the past week, a dire situation confirmed by State Climatologist Justin Glisan. The highest recorded precipitation was a mere 0.05 inches in Fort Madison.

 

The health of Iowa's corn and soybean crops has been particularly affected, with the percentage of crops rated as good or excellent plummeting to 49%. This marks a substantial decline from 60% for corn and 59% for soybeans reported just two weeks ago.

 

Of particular concern is the 5% of corn crops that have been rated as very poor, reflecting the severity of the ongoing weather challenges.

 

Mike Naig, Iowa's agriculture secretary, expressed concern over the prolonged heat and drought conditions, noting that the state has endured 166 consecutive weeks of at least moderate drought. As the Labour Day holiday passes, farmers are expected to intensify their pre-harvest preparations, given the varying crop conditions and the grim outlook for rain in the near future.

 

Approximately 80% of the state is currently grappling with some degree of drought, and the US Drought Monitor foresees an expansion of drought conditions to encompass the remaining 20% of the state in the coming month.

 

Only a quarter of Iowa's topsoil retains adequate moisture levels for crop cultivation, further compounding the challenges faced by farmers.

 

The US National Weather Service has indicated the possibility of strong thunderstorms sweeping across much of Iowa on Tuesday, with additional chances of rainfall on Sunday and Monday. These weather events provide a glimmer of hope for the agricultural community.

 

In addition to the struggling crops, the USDA highlighted the dire condition of pasture land in Iowa, with just 16% rated as good or excellent. This marks the lowest percentage in three years, posing challenges for livestock and grazing.

 

Despite the persistent heat, the USDA noted that reports of livestock death loss had decreased in the past week, offering a slight respite from the dire conditions.

 

Iowa experienced temperatures averaging approximately 2 degrees above normal in the previous week, following a scorching week that saw temperatures a staggering 10 degrees above normal. The persistence of such weather patterns has raised concerns about the long-term implications for the state's vital agricultural sector.

 

-      Iowa Capital Dispatch