Farmers struggle with dry, hot conditions

By Erik Bilstad

CREATED Jun. 18, 2012

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  • Wisconsin farmers made good use of last week’s hot and dry weather, harvesting 92 percent of first cutting hay and, in some areas, already beginning work on second crop. Image by Carole Curtis

MUKWONAGO - The current weather conditions in southeastern Wisconsin are a concern for farmers.

Rising temps and little rain aren't an ideal recipe for crops.

"(The crops) have been stagnant," farmer Dan Craig said.  "There hasn't been any moisture in the air."

Wacky weather is nothing new to Wisconsin farmers, but this year's (dry and hot) conditions are coming earlier than normal.

"This type of weather usually comes later in the summer," Craig explained.  "It's hard to predict what the next couple of months will bring.  If it is dryer and hotter than it's been, then we could be in trouble."

"If you don't get a crop, you're taking a huge loss."

The crops should survive the heat, but the lack of moisture is detrimental.  Craig is rooting for some humidity.  The best indicator, according to him, is the mosquitoes.

"If you have a great mosquito year, then you'll have a great crop year," he said.  "The moisture is key."