Rain provides at least temporary relief for Kansas farmers

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – The rain that fell over a lot of Kansas Friday was much-needed to say the least for farmers and producers who’ve confronted months of uncertainty and frustration via prolonged drought.

“We had a moist spring (however then) when the tap turned off, it received extraordinarily dry, one of many driest years I can keep in mind,” stated Harvey County farmer Steven McCloud.

The shortage of significant, long-term rain meant not solely injury to his crops, but in addition grass on which his livestock relies upon. McCloud has needed to feed his cattle their winter hay provide sooner than regular due to the poor situation of grass.

“Our alfalfa hay this yr, we solely received two cuttings off of it, which usually we get 4, typically as many as a brief 5,” he stated. “We received two this yr.”

The timing of the latest rainfall is making a distinction, particularly essential for the winter wheat crop.

“I’d think about the following week or so, we’ll get some heat climate, some sunshine, and you’ll actually see that crop develop, which all the time brings hope,” McCloud stated.

Whereas grateful for the rain proper now, McCloud stated extra is required to refill subsoil moisture and get again to the place we have to be.

“We’d like vital rainfall between now and [next spring]. Good heavy, moist snow that stays on the fields for a pair days, even per week or so this winter could be welcome,” he stated.

The system that got here via Kansas Friday is the primary system that produced greater than an inch of rain since June. A lot of south central Kansas, together with Wichita, obtained greater than an inch with this newest spherical.

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