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KENTUCKY CROP AND WEATHER REPORT--USDA Listed below are the current USDA Crop & Weather Report/Kentucky Climate Summary AND, in addition, previous week's reports for this year. The reports are produced in a joint effort by the UK Ag. Weather Center, Cooperative Extension Service County Agents, Farmers across the state, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and the US Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Click here for the PDF version. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period December 29, 2008 to Jan 4, 2009 ...Above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall... Temperatures for the period averaged 37 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 51 in the West to 50 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 9 degrees above normal in the West to 11 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 30 degrees in the West to 31 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.27 inches statewide which was 0.67 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.06 inches, Central 0.11 inches, Bluegrass 0.46 inches and East 0.42 inches, which was 0.91, 0.89, 0.46 and 0.46 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Henderson to a high of 1.49 inches at Dix Dam. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period December 22 to 28, 2008 ...Above Normal Temperatures And Above Normal Rainfall... Heavy rainfall covered much of the Bluegrass state last week as temperatures averaged above normal normal. Click here for the weekly rainfall map. Temperatures for the 7 day period averaged 37 degrees across the Bluegrass state which was 3 degrees above normal and 4 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 49 in the West to 49 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 31 degrees in the West to 29 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.90 inches statewide which was 0.95 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.77 inches, Central 2.65 inches, Bluegrass 2.21 inches and East 0.98 inches, which was 0.77, 1.62, 1.36 and 0.06 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 3.30 inches at Glasgow. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period December 15 to 21, 2008 Above normal temperatures and rainfall... Last week was a perfect example of how drastically weather can fluctuate in the Bluegrass State. The period began with a winter storm that produced freezing rain, sleet, and snow across the Commonwealth. Some areas received as much as 6 inches of snow from this weather system. Another system moved into the Ohio Valley from the southwest late in the period, bringing with it significant rainfall and very warm temperatures...Near record high temperatures in the upper 60s were seen across the state on Friday. Temperatures for the period averaged 41 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 40 in the West to 47 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 27 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 11 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.20 inches statewide which was 0.28 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.04 inches, Central 1.14 inches, Bluegrass 1.15 inches and East 1.39 inches, which was 0.04, 0.09, 0.21 and 0.63 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.54 inches at Campbellsville to a high of 1.75 inches at Lexington. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period December 8 to 14, 2008 ...Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall... The second week of December started off very wet with seasonably mild temperatures through Wednesday then turned colder for the entire state with snow in the east as a low pressure system moved south of Kentucky and up the east coast. Two to four inches of snow was received in some southcentral and southeastern sections of the state during the latter half of the week. Mild temperatures returned on Sunday. Temperatures for the period averaged 37 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal and 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 47 in the West to 47 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 34 degrees in the West to 30 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 1.81 inches statewide which was 0.86 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.50 inches, Central 1.97 inches, Bluegrass 1.51 inches and East 2.25 inches, which was 0.50, 0.94, 0.66 and 1.33 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.69 inches at Williamstown to a high of 4.03 inches at Nashville. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period December 1 to 7, 2008 Cold and relatively dry conditions continued during the first week of December. Multiple weather systems tracked across the Commonwealth, providing a mixed bag of precipitation and well below normal temperatures. Rainfall was below normal for the 5th week out of the past 6, and temperatures were below normal for the 6th time out of the past 7 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 32 degrees across the state which was 9 degrees below normal and 6 degrees below the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 40 in the West to 37 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 11 degrees below normal in the West to 11 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 24 degrees in the West to 25 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.59 inches statewide which was 0.40 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.65 inches, Central 0.53 inches, Bluegrass 0.46 inches and East 0.66 inches, which was 0.34, 0.63, 0.47 and 0.23 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.13 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 0.81 inches at Paducah. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period November 24 to 30, 2008 Below Normal Temperatures and Rainfall... One cold front at the beginning of the period and one at the end brought some decent rainfall amounts to portions of the Commonwealth, but the state on the whole received below normal rainfall for the 4th time in 5 weeks. These frontal passages also ushered in a cold air mass that provided the Bluegrass State with below normal temperatures for the 3rd straight week. Temperatures for the period averaged 38 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 52 in the West to 49 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 32 degrees in the West to 30 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.79 inches statewide which was 0.48 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.76 inches, Central 0.76 inches, Bluegrass 0.86 inches and East 0.78 inches, which was respectively 0.65, 0.57, 0.32 and 0.39 inches below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.37 inches at Buckhorn Lake to a high of 1.58 inches at Grayson. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period November 17 to 23, 2008 Below normal temperatures and rainfall... Last week, two successive cold fronts swept through the Ohio Valley and ushered in the coldest temperatures of the season thus far. Temperatures dipped into the teens a couple of nights during the period, and these lows contributed to the Commonwealth seeing below normal temperatures for the 4th time in 5 weeks. Last week was the coldest week that Kentucky has seen in November since 1976. Even with the passage of two cold fronts, minimal rainfall was reported throughout the Bluegrass State because of a lack of moisture. Temperatures for the period averaged 31 degrees across the state which was 14 degrees below normal and 16 degrees below the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 44 in the West to 40 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 14 degrees below normal in the West to 14 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 25 degrees in the West to 23 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 12 degrees below normal in the West to 9 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.06 inches statewide which was 0.87 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.04 inches and East 0.15 inches, which was 1.15, 1.03, 0.73 and 0.64 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.10 inches at Bristol. --- Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period November 10 to 16, 2008 ...Below normal temperatures and above normal rainfall... Above normal rainfall returned to the Commonwealth for the first time in 3 weeks as a couple of frontal systems tracked through the region. A cold Canadian airmass dove into the Ohio Valley behind a cold front creating showers and chilly temperatures late in the period. Temperatures for the period averaged 47 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal and 7 degrees below the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 52 in the West to 53 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 40 degrees in the West to 40 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.55 inches statewide which was 0.86 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.53 inches, Central 1.26 inches, Bluegrass 1.39 inches and East 1.86 inches, which was 0.77, 0.59, 0.72 and 1.23 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.66 inches at Nashville to a high of 2.74 inches at Cumberland Gap. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., November 10, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Mild temperatures and dry conditions this past week were favorable for fall harvesting and seeding activities. Limited rain was received on Friday. Kentucky continues to be dry following a dry summer and early fall. Corn harvesting was virtually complete and soybean harvesting was advancing. Farmers continued to seed their winter wheat. Farmers were able to work in the fields 6.0 days. Tobacco stripping continues to be slowed by dry weather. As of Sunday, November 9, topsoil moisture was rated 45 percent very short, 37 percent short, 17 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 53 percent very short, 37 percent short and 10 percent adequate. Activities for the week included harvesting corn and soybeans, seeding winter wheat and stripping tobacco. CORN: Corn harvest was virtually complete with 99 percent harvested as of Sunday, November 9. Harvesting was equal to the 2007 crop and up one percent from the five year average. Corn yields have been good given the dry summer. SOYBEANS: Soybean harvest continued to advance with the dry fall. As of Sunday, November 9, 89 percent of the soybean acreage for beans had been harvested. This was behind last year with 92 percent while ahead of the five year average of 81 percent. Farmers have reported good yields from full season soybeans given the dry summer. Double crop soybeans following the wheat harvest have yielded from good to very poor. TOBACCO: The burley tobacco crop was 28 percent stripped. This was up slightly from the previous week with 26 percent but continues to be behind 37 percent for last year and the 40 percent for average. Lack of rain to bring tobacco into order has slowed stripping. Condition of stripped tobacco was 1 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 44 percent good and 6 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Winter wheat was 90 percent seeded as of Sunday. This equals last year and was ahead of 81 percent for average. Most farmers report adequate moisture for seeding and germination while some report conditions too dry to seed. Condition of the emerged crop was 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 55 percent good and 14 percent excellent. Pasture conditions were rated 41 percent very poor, 30 percent poor, 22 percent fair and 7 percent good. Many farmers were feeding hay to their livestock as their pastures were not able to supply needed feed. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period November 3 to 9, 2008 ...Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall... Unseasonably mild temperatures and dry conditions were the rule last week as high pressure dominated the Bluegrass state through Friday. Limited rainfall occurred on Friday and temperatures turned seasonably cool through the weekend. Nearly half of the state continued in moderate to severe hydrologic drought ...with some southeast sections in extreme drought. Temperatures for the period averaged 54 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal and 5 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 64 in the West to 66 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 42 degrees in the West to 42 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from near normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the mid 70s and extreme lows were in the low to mid 30s. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.22 inches statewide which was 0.70 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.15 inches, Central 0.23 inches, Bluegrass 0.25 inches and East 0.25 inches, which was 0.85, 0.73, 0.58 and 0.63 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.02 inches at Covington to a high of 0.48 inches at Berea. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., November 3, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Cool conditions prevailed throughout the Commonwealth last week. As of Sunday, November 2, topsoil moisture was rated as 40 percent very short, 36 percent short and 24 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 55 percent very short, 34 percent short and 11 percent adequate. The Commonwealth experienced below normal precipitation last week, and rainfall totaled 0.00 inches, which was 0.73 inches below normal. The lack of rain in some areas continued to cause concern. Temperatures for the week averaged 49 degrees, 4 degrees below normal and 4 degrees cooler than the previous week. Conditions were favorable for field work as there were 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Main farm activities for the past week included seeding wheat, harvesting corn and soybeans, and stripping tobacco. CORN: The corn harvest was nearly complete at 96 percent as of Sunday, November 2. Harvesting progress was behind last year’s 99 percent, but equal to the five year average. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, November 2, 79 percent of the soybeans were harvested, compared to 81 percent last year and 71 percent for the five year average. Farmers reported mixed yields for double cropped soybeans. TOBACCO: Stripped tobacco condition was reported as 8 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Twenty-six percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, behind last year’s 33 percent, and 31 percent for the average. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Wheat seeding was 85 percent complete, above last year’s 76 percent and above the five year average of 71 percent. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 9 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Pastures were rated 43 percent very poor, 32 percent poor, 19 percent fair, and 6 percent good. Pastures were not supplying adequate nutrients for livestock following a very dry season. Moisture continued to be a concern. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period October 27 to November 2, 2008 High pressure built in over the Ohio Valley for the majority of the week and ushered in the coldest air mass of the season. During the middle of the period, low temperatures dropped into the low to mid 20s across much of the state. Dry conditions continued as the persistent high pressure system suppressed shower activity across the Commonwealth. Temperatures for the period averaged 49 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 64 in the West to 60 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 36 degrees in the West to 34 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 6 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.00 inches statewide which was 0.73 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.01 inches and East 0.01 inches, which was 0.78, 0.75, 0.67 and 0.73 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.04 inches at Dix Dam. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 27, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Much needed rainfall arrived last week across Kentucky. As of Sunday, October 26, topsoil moisture was rated as 36 percent very short, 41 percent short and 23 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 51 percent very short, 37 percent short and 12 percent adequate. The Commonwealth experienced above normal precipitation last week, and rainfall totaled 0.95 inches, which was 0.29 inches above normal. Temperatures for the week averaged 53 degrees, 2 degrees below normal and 9 degrees cooler than the previous week. There were 5.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Main farm activities for the past week included seeding wheat, harvesting corn and soybeans, and stripping tobacco. CORN: The corn harvest continued with 93 percent of the corn crop combined as of Sunday, October 26. Harvesting progress was still behind last year’s 98 percent, and equal to the five year average. Lodging of the crop continues to slow harvest. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, October 26, 65 percent of the soybeans were harvested, compared to 72 percent last year and 62 percent for the five year average. Soybean condition was rated 6 percent very poor, 20 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 33 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Stripped tobacco condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Twenty- two percent of burley tobacco had been stripped, equal to last year and the five year average. Some farmers report their tobacco weighing light and being light in color. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Wheat seeding was 62 percent complete, slightly behind last year’s 63 percent and slightly above the five year average of 61 percent. Condition of the emerged crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Pastures were rated 37 percent very poor, 35 percent poor, 22 percent fair, and 6 percent good. Pastures were not supplying much food nutrients for livestock following a very dry season. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period October 20 to 26, 2008 ...Below Normal Temperature and Above Normal Rainfall... Higher humidity and much needed rainfall occurred at the end of the workweek as a large low pressure system slowly worked its way from the central plains through the Bluegrass state. Otherwise, dry conditions prevailed for most of the week. Seasonal temperatures dominated the first half of the workweek, then cooler on Friday and Saturday, but mild conditions returned to the 60's on Sunday. Moderate to severe hydrologic drought and abnormally dry conditions for agriculture continued for mainly the Bluegrass and eastern sections of the state. Temperatures for the period averaged 53 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal and 9 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 65 in the West to 62 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 45 degrees in the West to 41 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Extreme high temperatures were in the low 70's and extreme low temperatures were in the low to mid 30's. No widespread frost was reported. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.95 inches statewide which was 0.29 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.93 inches, Central 1.41 inches, Bluegrass 0.73 inches and East 0.73 inches, which was 0.24, 0.76, 0.10 and 0.05 inches respectively above normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.38 inches at Quicksand to a high of 1.84 inches at Nashville. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 20, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: As of Sunday, October 19, topsoil moisture was rated as 45 percent very short, 44 percent short and 11 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 60 percent very short, 36 percent short and 4 percent adequate. The Commonwealth experienced below normal precipitation last week. Rainfall totaled 0.23 inches, which was 0.43 inches below normal. Temperatures for the week averaged 62 degrees, 4 degrees above normal and 3 degrees cooler than the previous week. There were 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork. Main farm activities for the past week included seeding wheat, harvesting corn and soybeans, and stripping tobacco. CORN: The corn harvest continued with 85 percent of the corn crop combined as of Sunday, October 19. Harvesting progress was still behind last year’s 97 percent, and 88 percent for the five year average. Lodging of the corn crop has continued to slow the harvest. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, October 19, 48 percent of soybeans were harvested, compared to 63 percent last year and 47 percent for the five year average. Ninety-seven percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 99 percent last year and the five year average of 98 percent. Soybeans reaching the mature stage were 81 percent, compared to last year’s 93 percent, and the five year average of 91 percent. Soybean condition was rated 4 percent very poor, 19 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 30 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Stripped tobacco condition was reported as 7 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Sixteen percent of tobacco had been stripped, equal to last year and the five year average. Some farmers report their tobacco weighing light. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Wheat seeding was 36 percent complete, behind last year’s 49 percent and 43 percent for the five year average. The winter wheat crop condition was rated 11 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 5 percent excellent. Pastures were rated 42 percent very poor, 35 percent poor, 19 percent fair, and 4 percent good. Fifty-eight percent of producers reported that they will have an adequate supply of hay for this winters feeding. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period October 13 to 19, 2008 ...Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall... Limited rainfall continued the dry weather pattern for the Bluegrass state. Dry, very warm weather occurred through Wednesday, scattered showers during the latter half of the work week, then cooler temperatures in the 60's prevailed through the weekend. Temperatures for the 7 day period averaged 62 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal and 3 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 73 in the West to 71 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 52 degrees in the West to 50 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 4 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.23 inches statewide which was 0.43 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.25 inches, Central 0.29 inches, Bluegrass 0.24 inches and East 0.15 inches, which was 0.44, 0.37, 0.39 and 0.52 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 0.68 inches at Bardstown. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 14, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: As of Sunday, October 12, topsoil moisture was rated as 43 percent very short, 35 percent short and 22 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 53 percent very short, 34 percent short and 13 percent adequate. Precipitation in Kentucky was above normal for the first time in 6 weeks, but arrived too late to help most crops. Rainfall totaled 1.00 inches, which was 0.43 inches above normal. Temperatures for the week averaged 65 degrees, 7 degrees above normal and 5 degrees higher than the previous week. There were 5.3 days suitable for fieldwork. Main farm activities included seeding wheat, harvesting corn and soybeans, and cutting and housing tobacco. CORN: By October 12, 77 percent of the corn had been harvested, behind 94 percent last year and 83 percent for the five year average. Some producers reported good test weights for harvested corn and were pleased with the quality of the crop. Farmers indicated they have been able to harvest much of the lodged corn that was damaged by the remnants of Hurricane Ike. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, October 12, 31 percent of soybeans were harvested, compared to 45 percent last year and 35 percent for the five year average. Ninety-one percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 94 percent last year and the five year average of 93 percent. Soybeans reaching the mature stage were 71 percent, compared to last year and the five year average of 81 percent. Soybean condition was rated 7 percent very poor, 18 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 27 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. As with corn, producers reported good test weights for harvested soybeans, and they were pleased with the quality of the crop. TOBACCO: The condition of housed tobacco was reported as 4 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Eleven percent of tobacco had been stripped, compared with 10 percent last year and 8 percent for the five year average. Farmers reported tobacco quality has been hurt by lack of rainfall, but could improve with better conditions through the rest of the curing season. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Wheat seeding was 17 percent complete, behind last year’s 21 percent and 24 percent for the five year average. Producers are hopeful that the rainfall last week will improve pasture conditions. Hay stocks for the winter remain a concern for some areas, and some cattle are being moved to market. Pastures were rated 45 percent very poor, 29 percent poor, 18 percent fair, and 8 percent good. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period October 2 to 12, 2008 The Commonwealth received above normal rainfall for the 1st time in 6 weeks as a cold front swept through the region and caused numerous showers and thunderstorms early in the period. Despite the rain event, the majority of the Bluegrass State remained in hydrologic drought. Temperatures remained unseasonably warm with above normal values being reported for the 2nd time in 3 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 65 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees above normal and 5 degrees above the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 80 in the West to 80 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 9 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 54 degrees in the West to 54 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.00 inche statewide which was 0.43 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.56 inches, Central 1.45 inches, Bluegrass 0.60 inches and East 0.52 inches, which was respectively 0.99 inches above normal, 0.87 inches above normal, 0.05 inches above normal and 0.05 inches belwo normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.13 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 2.90 inches at Nashville. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., October 6, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Last week, much needed precipitation fell throughout parts of Kentucky. However, much more rainfall was needed to reach normal levels, as some areas received no measurable rainfall. As of Sunday, October 5, topsoil moisture was rated as 69 percent very short, 27 percent short and 4 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 64 percent very short, 27 percent short and 9 percent adequate. Rainfall totaled 0.22 inches, which was 0.53 inches below normal. Temperatures for the week averaged 60 degrees, 2 degrees below normal and 10 degrees cooler than the previous week. Main farm activities for the week were harvesting corn and soybeans. Fieldwork was possible for 6.6 days out of a total 7 days. CORN: By October 5, 60 percent of the corn had been harvested, behind both last year’s 88 percent and 72 percent for the five year average. The corn crop was rated 97 percent mature, equal to the five year average. The crop condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Farmers reported that corn lodging has caused losses and is slowing the harvest. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, October 5, 18 percent of soybeans were harvested, compared to 30 percent last year and 21 percent for the five year average. Eighty-one percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 87 percent last year and the five year average of 85 percent. Soybeans reaching the mature stage was at 53 percent, compared to last year’s 69 percent and 66 percent for the five year average. Soybean condition was rated 5 percent very poor, 20 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 29 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. TOBACCO: The condition of housed tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Three percent of tobacco had been stripped, 18 percent was ready for stripping and 79 percent was not ready for stripping. Conditions are too dry for curing, and some producers were applying moisture to bring tobacco into case. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Wheat seeding was proceeding slowly as many farmers continued to wait for additional rainfall to improve germination. Seeding of wheat was rated at 6 percent, behind last year’s 10 percent and 12 percent for the five year average. Producers report they have begun feeding hay due to poor pasture conditions. Hay stocks for the winter are a growing concern for some areas. Pastures were rated 47 percent very poor, 33 percent poor, 16 percent fair, and 4 percent good. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period September 29 to October 5, 2008 Much of the Commonwealth received measurable rainfall at the beginning of the period as a cold front swept through the Ohio valley, but the rainfall received was still well below normal. Last week marked the 8th week out of the past 9 in which below normal rainfall was reported. As relatively dry conditions persisted for another week, 82 percent of the state regressed into moderate drought, and 26 percent of the state regressed into severe drought. A cool air mass built in behind the cold front and provided the Bluegrass State with below normal temperatures for the 1st time in 7 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 60 degrees across the state which was 2 degrees below normal and 10 degrees below the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 77 in the West to 74 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 47 degrees in the West to 47 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.22 inches statewide which was 0.53 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.18 inches, Central 0.24 inches, Bluegrass 0.26 inches and East 0.20 inches, which was 0.46, 0.55, 0.48 and 0.59 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 0.78 inches at Henderson. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 29, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Dry conditions continued throughout the Commonwealth last week. As of Sunday, September 28, topsoil moisture was rated as 65 percent very short, 28 percent short and 7 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 60 percent very short, 31 percent short and 9 percent adequate. Rainfall totaled 0.0 inches, which was 0.80 inches below normal. Temperatures for the week averaged 70 degrees, 5 degrees above normal and 3 degrees warmer than the previous week. Main farm activities for the week were harvesting corn and soybeans, cutting hay and harvesting tobacco. Fieldwork was possible for 6.6 days out of a total 7 days. CORN: Grain and silage harvest continued, but remained behind normal. By September 28, 38 percent of the corn had been harvested, compared to last year’s 78 percent and 58 percent for the five year average. At 93 percent, maturity levels are still behind the 99 percent a year ago and the five year average of 95 percent. Virtually all the corn crop had reached the dent stage. The crop was rated 3 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 34 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Farmers began harvesting their soybean crop. Seven percent of soybeans were harvested, compared to 17 percent last year and 11 percent for the five year average. Sixty-four percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 76 percent last year and the five year average of 70 percent. About 37 percent of the soybean crop had matured, compared to last year’s 50 percent and 46 percent for the five year average. Soybean condition was rated 8 percent very poor, 23 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 24 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Farmers reported 78 percent of the soybean crop was safe from frost damage. TOBACCO: The tobacco harvest continued to progress. Ninety-one percent of burley tobacco had been cut as of Sunday, September 28, even with last year, and ahead of the five year average of 89 percent. Eighty-four percent of the dark tobacco had been cut, behind last year’s 95 percent and the five year average of 88 percent. Two percent of the tobacco crop had been stripped, 11 percent was ready for stripping, and 87 percent was not ready. Housed crop condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Wheat seeding had begun with farmers reporting 4 percent of the crop seeded. Many farmers continued to wait for improved moisture for germination before planting fall grains. Farmers continued to report poor conditions for pastures and hay crops due to dry weather. Pastures were rated 42 percent very poor, 35 percent poor, 17 percent fair, and 6 percent good. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period September 22 to 28, 2008. Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: Abnormally dry crop moisture conditions and very warm temperatures dominated the Bluegrass state last week. Afternoon humidities were repeatedly near or below 30 percent and only limited rainfall was received across the state. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor indicated over 82 percent of the Commonwealth in Moderate hydrologic drought and nearly 20 percent in Severe hydrologic drought. It was the 7th week in the past 8 weeks with below normal rainfall in Kentucky. Temperatures for the period averaged 70 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal and 3 degrees warmer than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 82 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 55 degrees in the West to 56 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from near normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the past 7 days totaled 0.00 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.00 inches, Central 0.00 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.01 inches, which was 0.82, 0.85, 0.77 and 0.77 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.41 inches at Bristol. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 22, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Dry weather continues as below normal rainfall was received in the State for the 6th time in 7 weeks. Topsoil moisture was rated as 58 percent very short, 34 percent short and 8 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 53 percent very short, 37 percent short and 10 percent adequate. There were 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork. Main farm activities for the week were harvesting corn, cutting hay and harvesting tobacco. CORN: Grain and silage harvest continued, but remained behind normal. By September 21, 22 percent of the corn had been harvested. Last year it was 64 percent and 44 percent for the average. Some producers are reporting lodging in corn fields because of wind damage from the previous week. At 84 percent, maturity levels are still behind the 97 percent a year ago and the average of 90 percent. Ninety-nine percent had reached the dent stage. The crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 36 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Farmers are continuing to report that soybean yields, both full season and double crop, may be reduced because of the dry conditions. Some farmers also reported damage to their soybeans due to wind storm from previous week. Soybean condition was rated 4 percent very poor, 19 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 28 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Forty-three percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 65 percent last year and the five year average of 45 percent. About 20 percent of soybean crop had matured. Last year it was 31 percent and 24 percent for the average. TOBACCO: Tobacco harvest continues to progress. Eighty percent of burley tobacco and 74 percent of the dark tobacco had been cut as of Sunday, September 21. The five year average was 82 percent for burley tobacco and 78 percent for dark tobacco. Housed crop condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Damage is being reported to barns and standing tobacco due to the high winds of Hurricane Ike. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Pasture and hay conditions continue to deteriorate due to extreme dry weather. Pastures were rated 29 percent very poor, 34 percent poor, 28 percent fair, and 9 percent good. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period September 15 to 21, 2008 High pressure set up over the Ohio Valley early in the period and suppressed shower activity for the vast majority of the Commonwealth. The virtually rain- free week was the 6th time in the past 7 weeks that below normal rainfall was received. Temperatures during the last week of summer were true to the season with no deviation from normal. Temperatures for the period averaged 67 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal. High temperatures averaged from 80 in the West to 80 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 55 degrees in the West to 56 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.06 inches statewide which was 0.81 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.07 inches, Central 0.03 inches, Bluegrass 0.03 inches and East 0.10 inches, which was respectively 0.82, 0.94, 0.75 and 0.74 inches below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 1.20 inches at Cape Girardeau. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 15, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Dry weather continues as below normal rainfall was received in the State for the 5th time in 6 weeks. Remnants of Ike affected the State late in the period; but it was wind, not rain, that made its’ impact. Near hurricane force gusts were felt Sunday across the State. Topsoil moisture was rated as 44 percent very short, 34 percent short and 22 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 41 percent very short, 40 percent short and 19 percent adequate. There were 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork. Main farm activities for the week were cutting tobacco, harvesting corn and other general farm work. CORN: Grain and silage harvest continued, but remained behind normal. By September 14, 12 percent of the corn had been harvested. Last year it was 48 percent and 29 percent for the average. Some producers are reporting entire corn fields are flat on the ground because of the wind damage. At 74 percent, maturity levels are still behind the 90 percent a year ago and the average of 80 percent. Ninety-three percent had reached the dent stage, behind last year’s 98 percent and 96 percent for the average. The crop was rated 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 39 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Farmers are continuing to report that soybean yields, both full season and double crop, may be reduced because of the dry conditions. Soybean condition was rated 5 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Sixteen percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 41 percent last year and the five year average of 24 percent. About 36 percent of soybean leaves had turned yellow. Last year it was 48 percent and 43 percent for the average. TOBACCO: Tobacco is curing well. Seventy-three percent of burley tobacco and 69 percent of the dark tobacco had been cut as of Sunday, September 14. The five year average was 73 percent for burley tobacco and 66 percent for dark tobacco. Crop condition was rated 5 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. There are reports of major wind damage to tobacco barns, as well as the standing crop. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Conditions continue to decline due to dry weather. Pastures were rated 29 percent very poor, 29 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 12 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Hay crops were rated 17 percent very poor, 31 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 16 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period September 8 to 14, 2008 Above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall... Dry weather continues as below normal rainfall was received in the Commonwealth for the 5th time in 6 weeks. The remnants of Ike affected the Bluegrass State late in the period; but it was wind, not rain, that made its' impact. Near hurricane force gusts were felt Sunday in the western half of the state. With only 1 week of summer left, temperatures remained warm as above normal values were reported for the 3rd time in 4 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 74 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 65 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.32 inches statewide which was 0.46 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.21 inches, Central 0.18 inches, Bluegrass 0.37 inches and East 0.49 inches, which was 0.51, 0.77, 0.39 and 0.24 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 1.66 inches at Bristol. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 8, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Remnants of Gustav helped to bring above normal rainfall to western portions of the State. Eastern portions of the Commonwealth saw below normal rainfall. Temperatures continued to be very warm with above normal temperatures being reported. Topsoil moisture was rated as 43 percent very short, 37 percent short and 20 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 35 percent very short, 43 percent short and 22 percent adequate. There were 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork. Main farm activities for the week were cutting tobacco, cutting hay, and other general farm work. CORN: Five percent of corn was harvested. Last year it was 32 percent and 17 percent for the average. At 61 percent, maturity levels are still behind the 82 percent a year ago and the average of 68 percent. Eighty-five percent had reached the dent stage, behind last year’s 97 percent and 92 percent for the average. Ninety-nine percent had reached the dough stage or beyond. The crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 25 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Farmers are reporting that soybean yields may be reduced because of the dry conditions. Soybean condition was rated 3 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 37 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Seven percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 17 percent last year and the five year average of 11 percent. About 21 percent of soybean leaves had turned yellow. Last year it was 35 percent and 27 percent for the average. About 92 percent of soybeans have set pods. It was 98 percent in 2007, with the average at 95 percent. TOBACCO: Fifty-seven percent of burley tobacco and 61 percent of the dark tobacco had been cut as of Sunday, September 7. The five year average was 59 percent for burley tobacco and 52 percent for dark tobacco. Crop condition was rated 4 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Conditions continue to decline due to dry weather. Pastures were rated 21 percent very poor, 29 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 16 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Hay crops were rated 16 percent very poor, 27 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 19 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period September 1 to 7, 2008 While the remnants of Gustav helped to bring above normal rainfall to western portions of the state for the first time in 5 weeks, eastern portions of the Commonwealth saw below normal rainfall values for the 4th time in 5 weeks as a cold front caused a few showers late in the period. Temperatures continued to be very warm with above normal values being reported for the 2nd time in 3 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 85 in the West to 88 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 65 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.44 inches statewide which was 0.13 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.57 inches, Central 0.88 inches, Bluegrass 0.35 inches and East 0.10 inches, which was respectively 0.01 inches above normal, 0.23 inches above nomal, 0.17 inches below normal and 0.48 inches below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.01 inches at London to a high of 1.39 inches at Bowling Green. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., September 2, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Rain fell across parts of the State this week, but did little to improve soil and crop conditions. All areas need more rain, especially in the west. Average temperatures were normal for this time of year. Topsoil moisture was rated as 43 percent very short, 36 percent short, and 21 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 38 percent very short, 41 percent short, and 21 percent adequate. There were 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork. Main farm activities for the week were cutting and housing tobacco, cutting hay, harvesting corn, and other general farm work. CORN: Reports on current crop conditions were mixed due to delayed planting and drier growing conditions. The crop was rated 1 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. More silage was cut and farmers were preparing for the grain harvest. At 29 percent, maturity levels are still behind the 74 percent a year ago and the average of 57 percent. Seventy-eight percent had reached the dent stage. Progress was still behind last year’s 94 percent and 89 percent for the average. Ninety-three percent had reached the dough stage or beyond. Last year the entire crop had passed through this stage, and with the five year average at 99 percent. SOYBEANS: The weather has not been very cooperative for soybean production. Double cropped beans have been impacted the most. Soybean condition was rated 3 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 33 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Three percent of soybeans have dropped leaves, compared to 9 percent last year and the five year average of 6 percent. About 9 percent of soybeans leaves had turned yellow. Last year it was 25 percent and 16 percent for the average. About 88 percent of soybeans have set pods. It was 91 percent in 2007, with the average at 87 percent. TOBACCO: In spite of the recent high temperatures and lack of rain, only 5 percent of the housed tobacco showed signs of houseburn. Tobacco harvest gained momentum during the week. Forty-five percent of burley tobacco and 48 percent of the dark tobacco had been cut as of Sunday, August 31. This time last year half of all Kentucky tobacco was cut. The five year average was 47 percent for burley tobacco and 39 percent for dark tobacco. Crop condition was rated 4 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: More hay was cut this week, but many farmers are debating whether another cutting is worth making. Conditions continue to decline. Pastures were rated 24 percent very poor, 28 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 16 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Hay crops were rated 14 percent very poor, 25 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 25 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period August 25 to 31, 2008 Normal temperatures and above normal rainfall... The remnants of Tropical Storm Fay provided much needed rainfall in the southeastern quarter of the Commonwealth that has been experiencing moderate drought conditions. Unfortunately, that weather system did not help western portions of the state which have seen below normal rain for 4 straight weeks. Temperatures during the period remained true to form for late summer as normal temperatures were reported. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal. High temperatures averaged from 86 in the West to 82 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 0 degrees from normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 66 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.92 inches statewide which was 0.09 inches from normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.41 inches, Central 0.61 inches, Bluegrass 0.86 inches and East 1.57 inches, which was respectively 0.37 inches below normal, 0.25 inches below normal, 0.05 inches below normal and 0.78 inches above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.09 inches at Bardstown to a high of 2.02 inches at Bristol. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., August 25, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: It is dry! That was the number one comment made by most reporters this week. A few fortunate spots in the west benefitted from a shower or two. Above average temperatures returned as well. Crops have started to show signs of stress. Topsoil moisture was rated as 44 percent very short, 40 percent short, and 16 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was rated 32 percent very short, 43 percent short, and 25 percent adequate. There were 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork. Most of the farm work consisted of topping, spraying, cutting, and housing tobacco, cutting hay, watering cattle, and other farm work. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, August 24, set tobacco condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Thirty percent of the dark tobacco has been cut, behind the 39 percent cut last year and on par with the five year average of 29 percent. Burley cut was at 28 percent. In 2007 it was 33 percent with an average of 34 percent. There is concern that the housed tobacco may dry up instead of curing. CORN: Some fields have been cut for silage before the quality had a chance to decline. However, only 12 percent of the corn crop has matured. It was 48 percent last year with an average of 34 percent. Fifty-four percent was in the dent stage, compared to 80 percent a year ago and 76 percent for the five year average. About 82 percent of the corn crop was at the dough stage or beyond. It was 94 percent in 2007 and the five year average was 95 percent. Fields were rated 1 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Crop condition declined this week as well. Soybeans were rated 2 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. Additional rain would go a long way to improve pod fill. Percent of soybeans that have bloomed was at 93 percent. Last year it was 97 percent with 94 percent for the average. Seventy-four percent of soybeans have set pods, behind the 84 percent and in 2007 and the average of 78 percent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Pastures and hay fields were also stressed over the last few days. Hay was cut, but field conditions were rated 11 percent very poor, 21 percent poor, 39 percent fair, 27 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Pastures faired worse and were rated 14 percent very poor, 26 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 22 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period August 18 to 24, 2008 The Bluegrass State experienced another unseasonably dry week as high pressure set in over the region. With the exception of a few mid-week showers in western portions of the state, much of the Commonwealth received no rainfall during the period. Warm temperatures accompanied the dry weather as above normal values were reported for the first time in 3 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 1 degree above normal. High temperatures averaged from 89 in the West to 90 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 65 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.06 inches statewide which was 0.65 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.25 inches, Central 0.01 inches, Bluegrass 0.00 inches and East 0.00 inches, which was 0.58, 0.68, 0.68 and 0.86 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 3.37 inches at Cape Girardeau. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., August 18, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Kentucky weather continued to be cooler this week, which is not typical for mid-August. The lack of adequate rainfall in some areas continued to cause concern. Conditions were favorable for fieldwork as there were 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork. Farm activities included topping, spraying, cutting, and housing tobacco, cutting hay, and other general farm work. Topsoil moisture was rated as 18 percent very short, 47 percent short, 34 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 16 percent very short, 42 percent short and 42 percent adequate. TOBACCO: Harvest has progressed slowly with 11 percent of the burley cut as of Sunday, August 17. Last year it was 16 percent with a five year average of 18 percent. Sixty-four percent has been topped, compared with 77 percent in 2007 and 69 percent for the average. Dark tobacco harvest was at 13 percent, same as the average and 1 percent ahead of a year ago. Tobacco condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. Early housed tobacco was in good condition, but remaining crop in the field is in need of more rain. Minor black shank problems still exist in some fields. CORN: Just a few fields have begun to mature at 3 percent. This time last year 22 percent was mature with a five year average of 14 percent. A few early maturing fields may be harvested for silage in a week or two. Percentage of corn in the dent stage was 41 percent. It was 56 percent in 2007 with 53 percent for the average. Seventy-two percent was in the dough stage or beyond, behind last year’s 79 percent and the five year average of 78 percent. Condition of the corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: Rain would improve soybean conditions. Moisture is needed to fill pods and prevent a decline in crop condition. Fields were rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. Eighty-five percent of soybeans were blooming, though a year ago it was 90 percent. Progress over the entire season was close to the five year average of 84 percent. Percent of soybeans setting pods was on track with the average at 64 percent. Last year it was 73 percent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Weather was favorable for baling hay, but fields will need more precipitation in order to promote growth. Conditions were rated 3 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 4 percent excellent for hay. Pastures were rated 6 percent very poor, 19 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 34 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period August 11 to 17, 2008 Below normal temperatures and rainfall... High pressure was the dominant weather feature over the Ohio Valley for much of the period as the Commonwealth experienced the 2nd straight week of very dry conditions. A weak upper level disturbance rotated throught the region on the 14th and 15th, but this feature only resulted in isolated showers and minimal rainfall totals. The high pressure that was centered over the midwest ushered in a cool air mass which continued the relatively mild summer pattern. Last week was the 8th week out of the past 9 with either normal or below normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 70 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 83 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 59 degrees in the West to 57 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 6 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.08 inches statewide which was 0.75 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.01 inches, Central 0.02 inches, Bluegrass 0.11 inches and East 0.16 inches, which was 0.64, 0.79, 0.74 and 0.80 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Berea to a high of 0.42 inches at Spindletop. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., August 11, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Kentucky had beautiful and much more comfortable weather last week, a welcome break from heat and high humidity. However, minimal rainfall was received and was scattered across the state. Topsoil moisture was rated as 11 percent very short, 36 percent short, 52 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 14 percent very short, 35 percent short and 51 percent adequate. There were 5.9 days suitable for fieldwork. Farm activities last week included topping, cutting or preparing to cut tobacco and other general farm work. TOBACCO: Tobacco condition is mostly fair to excellent with 1 percent rated very poor, 6 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. There were still reports of black shank in some fields and reports of worms. As of Sunday, August 10, 45 percent of the burley had been topped, compared to 60 percent for a year ago and the five year average of 55 percent. Harvest is just beginning with 3 percent of burley tobacco cut, compared to 7 percent cut last year and 6 percent for the average. Seventy-five percent of the dark tobacco has been topped, compared to 82 percent last year and the average of 77 percent. CORN: Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. Ninety-seven percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, August 10, behind both last year and the average of 99 percent. Seventy-seven percent of the corn was in the milk stage or beyond, compared to 83 percent a year ago and the five year average of 84 percent. Half of the crop was in the dough stage or beyond, behind last year’s 66 percent and the five year average of 63 percent. Eighteen percent of the corn acreage was in the dent stage, compared to 42 percent for the previous year and the five year average of 39 percent. SOYBEANS: Soybean condition improved where rains were received and was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 25 percent excellent. As of Sunday, August 10, 78 percent of soybeans were blooming, behind last year’s 88 percent, but slightly ahead of the five year average of 77 percent. Forty-one percent of the soybeans were setting pods, behind last year’s 66 percent and the five year average of 54 percent. Although some rain was received, some areas are still very dry and producers of double- crop beans are especially concerned about pod fill. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Hay remains in mostly fair to good condition, with 4 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. Pasture condition improved somewhat over the past week and was rated 4 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 5 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period August 4 to 10, 2008 Below normal temperatures and rainfall... Aside from one weather system that affected the Commonwealth on August 5th and 6th, last week was relatively dry. The Bluegrass State seems to be trending towards below normal rainfall as 3 of the past 4 weeks have seen below normal values. An unseasonably cool air mass accompanied high pressure in the latter part of the period to continue the relatively mild summer. Above normal temperature values have not been reported in 7 of the past 8 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 87 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 65 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.35 inches statewide which was 0.65 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.17 inches, Central 0.13 inches, Bluegrass 0.59 inches and East 0.348 inches, which was 0.81, 0.84, 0.42 and 0.56 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cape Girardeau to a high of 1.41 inches at Williamstown. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., August 4, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Much of the State received much needed rain this past week, which benefited all crops. More rain is needed throughout the State to counteract the hot August temperatures. Topsoil moisture was rated as 8 percent very short, 37 percent short, 53 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 14 percent very short, 35 percent short, 50 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. There were 5.0 days suitable for fieldwork. The majority of field work this past week included mowing pastures and topping tobacco. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, August 3, the tobacco crop condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. Forty-six percent of the burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, behind last year’s average of 59 percent and the five-year average of 60 percent. Burley tobacco topped was at 21 percent compared to last year’s 36 percent and the five-year average of 37 percent. Seventy-six percent of the dark tobacco was blooming or beyond, and fifty-three percent has been topped. Black shank continues to be the main concern with tobacco, since farmers are spraying for worms. CORN: The corn condition improved with 1 percent rated as very poor, 7 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 33 percent excellent. Ninety percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, August 3, behind both last year’s 95 percent and the five-year average of 94 percent. Fifty-seven percent of the corn was in milk stage or beyond, compared to 70 percent last year and the five-year average of 71 percent. Thirty-one percent of the corn was in dough stage or beyond, compared to last year and the five-year average of 46 percent. Six percent of the corn was in dent stage or beyond, compared to last year’s 23 percent and the five-year average of 22 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, August 3, sixty-four percent of the soybeans were blooming, behind last year’s 79 percent and the five-year average of 69 percent. Twenty-four percent of the soybeans were setting pods, behind last year’s 53 percent and the five-year average of 43 percent. The soybean condition remained steady compared to last week with 2 percent rated very poor, 10 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 24 percent excellent. The single crop soybeans are generally doing better than the double cropped soybeans, which need more rain for good crop development. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE The rains this past week improved the pasture conditions with 3 percent rated very poor, 16 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. The hay condition remained steady with 3 percent rated percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 5 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period July 27 to August 3, 2008 The Bluegrass State experienced a wet week last week as a couple weather systems impacted the Ohio Valley and continued to fend off summertime drought conditions for much of the state. The majority of the rain came late in the week as a frontal boundary extended just to the north of the Commonwealth and remained in place long enough to cause widespread showers and thunderstorms. This pattern also resulted in a hot week as Kentucky was oriented on the southern side of the frontal boundary; above normal temperatures were reported for the first time in 7 weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 78 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees above normal. High temperatures averaged from 91 in the West to 87 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 70 degrees in the West to 67 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.84 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.81 inches, Central 1.78 inches, Bluegrass 1.48 inches and East 2.13 inches, which was 0.85, 0.75, 0.43 and 1.03 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.09 inches at Covington to a high of 3.39 inches at Hardinsburg. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 28, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The traditional Kentucky summer of hazy, hot, and humid conditions continued last week with little to no wide spread rainfall. At this point all crops reflect the adequacy of local rainfall. The State needs a good soaking rain for continued crop development. Topsoil moisture was rated as 16 percent very short, 47 percent short, 36 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 17 percent very short, 35 percent short, 47 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. There were 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork. The majority of farm work this week included cutting hay, topping tobacco, and spraying crops for weeds and insects. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, July 27, the tobacco crop condition was reported as 6 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 18 percent excellent. About 13 percent of tobacco plants were under 24 inches tall, with 37 percent between 24-36 inches in height, and 50 percent were over 36 inches. Thirty percent of the burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, and fifteen percent has been topped. Seventy percent of the dark tobacco was blooming or beyond, and 43 percent has been topped. Farmers were both spraying and topping their tobacco last week. The tobacco crop looks good overall but there were some reports of heavy worm infestations and black shank. CORN: The corn condition has slipped a little because of the lack of rain. Corn was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. Eighty-two percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 27, behind both last year’s 90 percent and the five- year average of 88 percent. Forty-four percent of the corn was in milk stage or beyond, compared to 53 percent last year and the five-year average of 58 percent. Eighteen percent of the corn was in dough stage or beyond, compared to last year’s 29 percent and the five-year average of 29 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 27, forty-eight percent of the soybeans were blooming, significantly behind last year’s 63 percent and the five-year average of 58 percent. Soybean condition declined slightly from last week with 2 percent rated very poor, 9 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 19 percent excellent.. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Kentucky pastures and hay crops continue to look good, although they are declining in condition due to lack of rain. Pasture condition was rated 4 percent very poor, 18 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 34 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Hay in the field was rated as 3 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 41 percent fair, 40 percent good, and 5 percent Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period July 21 to July 27, 2008 Below Normal Temperatures and Slightly Below Normal Rainfall: Rainfall was slightly below normal for the Bluegrass state again last week and it was the second week straight with below normal rainfall. The south and west sections of the state received the bulk of the rain for the state. The northern half of the state received only limited rainfall. Temperatures were also below to slightly below normal which continued the extended spell of seasonal to below seasonal temperatures. Temperatures for the 7 day period averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal. High temperatures averaged from 89 in the West to 87 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.87 inches statewide which was 0.19 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.02 inches, Central 1.04 inches, Bluegrass 0.79 inches and East 0.62 inches, which was +0.09, -0.07, -0.27 and -0.51 inches respectively from normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.06 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 2.33 inches at Princeton. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 21, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The traditional Kentucky summer of hazy, hot, and humid conditions returned last week with little to no rainfall. At this point all the crops need rain for continued good crop development. Topsoil moisture was rated as 12 percent very short, 42 percent short, 44 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 11 percent very short, 36 percent short, 51 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. There were 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork. The majority of farm work this week included cutting hay, working with their tobacco, and spraying crops for weeds and insects. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, July 20, the tobacco crop condition was reported as 5 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. About 28 percent of tobacco plants were under 24 inches tall, with 36 percent between 24-36 inches in height, and 36 percent were over 36 inches. Fourteen percent of the burley tobacco was blooming or beyond, and five percent has been topped. Forty-eight percent of the dark tobacco was blooming or beyond, and 30 percent has been topped. Farmers were spraying and topping their tobacco this past week. The tobacco crop looks good overall with some reports of bud and horn worms and blank shank. CORN: The corn condition remained steady with 1 percent rated very poor, 3 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Sixty- eight percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 20, well behind both last year’s 87 percent and the five-year average of 82 percent. Twenty-six percent of the corn was in milk stage or beyond, compared to 43 percent last year and the five-year average of 44 percent. Ten percent of the corn was in dough stage or beyond, compared to last year’s 14 percent and the five-year average of 15 percent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 20, twenty-nine percent of the soybeans were blooming, significantly behind last year’s 54 percent and the five-year average of 48 percent. Soybean condition improved slightly from last week with 1 percent rated very poor, 6 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 25 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Throughout Kentucky pastures and hay crops continue to look good, although they are in need of rain. Pasture condition was rated 3 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Hay in the field was rated as 3 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period July 14 to 20, 2008 The Bluegrass State experienced a very dry week last week with many locations throughout the state reporting no rainfall. Strong high pressure set up over the Ohio Valley and suppressed shower activity for the majority of the period. Most of the rainfall during the period occurred Sunday, July 20 ahead of an approaching cold front. Although temperatures seemed hot across the Commonwealth under sunny skies for much of the week, above normal temperatures still have not been reported for 5 straight weeks. Temperatures for the period averaged 75 degrees across the state which was 1 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 91 in the West to 89 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 3 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 65 degrees in the West to 63 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 2 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.19 inches statewide which was 0.72 inches from normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.02 inches, Central 0.09 inches, Bluegrass 0.21 inches and East 0.40 inches, which was 0.76, 1.00, 0.80 and 0.44 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 0.54 inches at Covington. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 14, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Kentucky received varying amounts of rain this past week, which improved crop prospects. However, there are some areas of the State that are dry and could use some more rain for good crop development. Farmers in general commented that the row crops, apples and peaches were looking good throughout the State. Topsoil moisture was rated as 6 percent very short, 26 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 9 percent very short, 24 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. There were 4.8 days suitable for fieldwork. Farmers were busy with mowing pastures, cutting hay, baling straw, and other odd jobs around the farm that needed to be done. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, July 13, the tobacco crop condition was reported as 3 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 21 percent excellent. About 37 percent of tobacco plants were under 24 inches high, with 41 percent between 24-36 inches in height, and 22 percent were over 36 inches. Farmers were spraying and starting to top their tobacco this past week. The tobacco crop looks good overall with only a few reports of worms in the tobacco. CORN: The corn condition improved with 1 percent rated very poor, 2 percent poor, 14 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Forty-four percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 13, well behind both last year’s 77 percent and the five-year average of 72 percent. Six percent of the corn was in milk stage or beyond, compared to 28 percent last year and the five-year average of 27 percent. One percent of the corn was in dough stage or beyond, compared to the five-year average of 4 percent. There were minimal reports of disease in the corn. SOYBEANS: Farmers are winding down their planting of double crop soybeans, and with the recent rains they are germinating well. As of Sunday, July 13, ninety- seven percent of the planted soybeans had emerged, which was behind both last year and the five-year average. Fifteen percent of the soybeans were blooming, significantly behind last year’s 39 percent and the five-year average of 33 percent. Soybean condition improved with 1 percent rated very poor, 7 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Throughout Kentucky pastures and the hay crop continue to look good. Pasture condition was rated 3 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Hay in the field was rated as 3 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period July 7 to 13, 2008 Normal temperatures and above normal rainfall... Moisture-rich weather systems tracking across the Ohio Valley last week provided the Commonwealth with a relatively wet second week of July, especially western portions of the state. Drought conditions continue to be avoided for the majority of the Bluegrass State as above normal rainfall was reported for the 2nd week out of the past 3. Summertime temperatures have yet to be excessively hot as normal or below normal temperatures were reported for the 4th straight week. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal. High temperatures averaged from 89 in the West to 85 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 70 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Rainfal for the period totaled 1.51 inches statewide which was 0.67 inches from normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 2.21 inches, Central 1.81 inches, Bluegrass 0.95 inches and East 1.14 inches, which was respectively 1.53 inches above normal, 1.04 inches above normal, 0.03 inches below normal and 0.20 inches above normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.42 inches at Spindletop to a high of 3.86 inches at Glasgow. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., July 7, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Kentucky weather was practically picture perfect for wheat harvest last week being cooler and dry for most of the week. However, there is some apprehension about soil moisture levels and concern about the lack of rain for crop development. Topsoil moisture was rated as 9 percent very short, 27 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 8 percent very short, 25 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. There were 5.3 days suitable for fieldwork. Farmers were busy this past week finishing small grain harvest, planting double-crop soybeans and cutting hay. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, July 6, the tobacco crop condition was reported as 4 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. About 46 percent of tobacco plants were under 12 inches high, with 36 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 18 percent were over 24 inches. Tobacco is doing well overall with no wide spread disease problems and only a couple of reports of hornworms. CORN: Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 22 percent excellent. Thirty-one percent of the corn has tasseled or is tasseling. Sixteen percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, July 6, well behind both last year’s 62 percent and the five-year average of 59 percent. Lack of rain is becoming an increasing concern in central Kentucky and a few western counties. There were very few reports about insect or disease damage. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, July 6, single crop soybean planting is virtually complete with 100 percent reported planted, tied with the 100 percent reported for both last year and the five-year average. Ninety-one percent of double crop soybeans have been planted, slightly ahead of both last year and the average at 90 and 89 percent respectively. Eight percent of soybeans were blooming, significantly behind last year’s 20 percent and the five-year average of 21 percent. Ninety-four percent of the soybeans have emerged which was behind last year’s 100 percent, but ahead of the five-year average of 90 percent. The average height of emerged soybeans was 10 inches. Soybean condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Some producers, especially in central and some western counties, are concerned that dry soils will slow crop development for emerged double-crop soybeans. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvest is beginning to wind down with 93 percent of the crop harvested, ahead of the 89 percent harvested last year, but just behind the five-year average of 94 percent. Reporters are extremely positive about yields. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Pasture condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. The condition of hay in the field was rated 3 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period June 30 to July 6, 2008 Below Normal Temperature and Below Normal Rainfall: Cool temperatures and mostly dry conditions dominated the Bluegrass state last week with scattered showers and thunderstorms at the start of the week and on Friday and Saturday which continued the below normal rainfall pattern. Temperatures for the period averaged 73 degrees across the state which was 3 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 84 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 64 degrees in the West to 61 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 0.61 inches statewide which was 0.42 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.46 inches, Central 0.86 inches, Bluegrass 0.50 inches and East 0.62 inches, which was 0.46, 0.22, 0.54 and 0.47 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Mayfield to a high of 1.40 inches at Jackson. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 30, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Showers were received at week’s end, but more rain is needed in central and western parts of the state. Topsoil moisture was rated as 10 percent very short, 31 percent short, 56 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 7 percent very short, 28 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. There were 5.6 days suitable for fieldwork. Farmers were busy this past week with small grain harvest, spraying crops, planting double-crop soybeans and cutting hay. TOBACCO: As of Sunday, June 29, the tobacco crop condition was reported as 2 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. About 59 percent of tobacco plants were under 12 inches high, with 29 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 12 percent were over 24 inches. Tobacco is doing well overall with only minimal disease or insect problems reported. CORN: Corn condition was rated 4 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Ten percent of the corn has tasseled or is tasseling, compared to last year’s 35 percent and the five-year average of 33 percent. Seven percent of the corn has silked or was silking as of Sunday, June 29, behind both last year’s 39 percent and the five year average of 30 percent. Lack of rain and drying winds were the main concerns regarding the corn crop. There were very few reports about insect or disease damage. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 29, almost all of the single crop soybeans had been planted at 99 percent, just behind the 100 percent reported last year but ahead of the five-year average of 97 percent. Sixty-seven percent of double crop soybeans have been planted compared to 76 percent last year and the five-year average of 71 percent. All soybeans planted was 91 percent, behind last year’s 98 percent and the five-year average of 94 percent. Eighty-four percent of the soybeans have emerged which was behind last year’s 97 percent, but equal to the five-year average of 84 percent. The average height of emerged soybeans was 8 inches. Soybean condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 17 percent excellent. Double-crop producers are looking for rain to facilitate planting in wheat fields and help with seed germination. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvest continues just ahead of last year and average with 78 percent of the crop harvested. A year ago, 75 percent had been harvested and the five-year average was 76 percent. Early reports remain extremely positive with yields approaching State record levels. Barley harvest was 93 percent complete compared with 100 percent last year and the five-year average of 98 percent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: About 84 percent of the sorghum acres had been planted as of Sunday, June 29 compared with 99 percent a year ago and the five-year average of 96 percent. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period June 23 to 29, 2008 Normal temperatures and above normal rainfall... The majority of the rainfall received in the period came from a slow moving weather system that affected the Commonwealth from June 27th to 29th. For the state, this was the 2nd week out of the past 4 with just slightly above normal rainfall. Eastern portions of the state experiencing moderate drought recieved above normal rainfall for the 1st time in 6 weeks. The Bluegrass State has not experienced an excessively hot start to the summer as the 1st full week of summer reported normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 74 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal and 5 degrees above the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 88 in the West to 86 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 1 degree below normal in the West to 1 degree above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 67 degrees in the West to 64 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.99 inches statewide which was 0.07 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.66 inches, Central 0.73 inches, Bluegrass 1.32 inches and East 1.21 inches, which was respectively 0.34 inches below normal, 0.16 inches below normal, 0.43 inches above normal and 0.31 inches above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.10 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 1.70 inches at Huntington. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 23, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Concerns are growing about adequate rainfall, especially in the eastern part of the State. Producers are painfully aware of the similar scenario from 2007. Weekly precipitation for the State was slightly below normal for only the second time in the past month and averaged 0.49 inches below normal. Temperatures statewide averaged 69 degrees, 5 degrees below normal, which helped moderate the effects of the rainfall shortage. Topsoil moisture was rated as 6 percent very short, 26 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent very short, 19 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus. There were 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork. TOBACCO: Burley setting was 93 percent complete as of Sunday, June 22, compared with 97 percent for last year and the five-year average of 92 percent. Ninety- four percent of the dark tobacco had been set. Last year 99 percent had been set and the five-year average was 95 percent. About 74 percent of tobacco plants were under 12 inches high, with 22 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 4 percent were over 24 inches. The tobacco crop condition was reported as 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 63 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. CORN: Corn condition was rated 2 percent poor, 11 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 31 percent excellent. Two percent of the corn has tasseled or is tasseling, compared to last year’s 19 percent and the five-year average of 15 percent. There were some reports of corn borer activity, but on average very few reports about insect or disease damage. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 22, 95 percent of the single crop soybeans had been planted, behind the 99 percent reported last year but ahead of the five- year average of 92 percent. Twenty-seven percent of double crop soybeans have been planted, compared to 54 percent last year and the five year average of 37 percent. All beans planted was 82 percent, behind last year’s 92 percent but equal to the five-year average. Some concern was expressed about the ability of planters to get through both the hard soil crust and the crop residue left by the wheat harvest. Seventy-four percent of the soybeans have emerged which was behind last year’s 89 percent and the five-year average of 75 percent. Soybean condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. The average height of emerged soybeans was 6 inches, behind both last year’s 7 inches and the five-year average of 7 inches. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvest is beginning in earnest with 38 percent of the crop harvested compared with 57 percent a year ago and the five-year average of 43 percent. Early reports remain extremely positive with yields approaching State record levels. Barley harvest was 91 percent complete compared with 99 percent last year and the five-year average of 95 percent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: About 80 percent of the sorghum acres had been planted as of Sunday, June 22 compared with 98 percent a year ago and the five-year average of 91 percent. About 37 percent of second alfalfa cutting has been completed. The recent dry spell and the shortage of forage in 2007 has farmers cutting hay to replenish supplies exhausted during the dry summer of 2007 and past winter. Pasture condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period June 16 to 22, 2008 Below normal temperatures and rainfall... Rainfall last week was spotty and minimal, most of which fell at the beginning of the period when a cold front swept across the Bluegrass State. Although rainfall totals in the state were below normal only for the 2nd time in the past month, rainfall totals in the east were below normal for the 5th straight week. This lack of rainfall has caused the east to slip into moderate drought conditions. Temperatures cooled down a bit behind the cold front as the Commonwealth experienced below normal temperatures for the first time in a month. Temperatures for the period averaged 69 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees below normal and 7 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 83 in the West to 81 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 61 degrees in the West to 58 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.45 inches statewide which was 0.49 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.28 inches, Central 0.17 inches, Bluegrass 0.66 inches and East 0.62 inches, which was 0.43, 0.72, 0.40 and 0.42 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 1.34 inches at Louisville. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 16, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Most areas of Kentucky would like some additional rain even though it’s been a very wet spring. A few farmers are reporting issues with army worms and black shank in tobacco. Precipitation for the week was slightly above normal for the fourth time in the last seven weeks and averaged 0.09 inches above normal. Temperatures statewide averaged 76 degrees, 4 degrees above normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 3 percent very short, 23 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent very short, 14 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. There were 5.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Many areas were replanting blank spots in the corn fields. TOBACCO: Burley setting was 79 percent complete as of Sunday, June 15, compared with 89 percent for last year and the five-year average of 84 percent. Seventy- five percent of the dark tobacco had been set. Last year 94 percent had been set and the five-year average was 87 percent. About 82 percent of tobacco plants were under 12 inches high, with 16 percent 12-24 inches in height, and 2 percent were over 24 inches. The tobacco crop condition was reported as 5 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. CORN: Corn condition was rated 4 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. Ninety-eight percent of the corn has emerged, compared to last year’s 99 percent and the five-year average of 96 percent. There were some reports of corn leaves rolling up in the mid-day heat. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 15, 71 percent of the single crop soybeans had been planted, behind the 89 percent reported last year and the five-year average of 76 percent. Fifty percent of the soybeans had emerged which was behind last year’s 84 percent and the five-year average of 66 percent. Soybean condition was rated 4 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 62 percent good, and 15 percent excellent. The average height of emerged soybeans was 4 inches, behind both last year and the five-year average of 5 inches. SMALL GRAINS: Wheat harvest is just underway, with 3 percent of the crop harvested compared with 26 percent a year ago and the five-year average of 18 percent. Early reports are extremely positive about yields although the moisture content appears somewhat high. Barley harvest was 50 percent complete compared with 84 percent last year and the five-year average of 74 percent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: About 65 percent of the sorghum acres had been planted as of Sunday, June 15 compared with 94 percent a year ago and the five-year average of 80 percent. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period June 9 to 15, 2008 Above normal temperatures and rainfall... Two separate weather systems provided the Commonwealth with slightly above normal rainfall for the fourth time in the past seven weeks. Although adequate rainfall has been received in much of the state, drought conditions are beginning to build once again in the east as below normal rainfall was reported for the fourth straight week in that portion of the state. The period was unseasonably hot as above normal temperatures were reported for the second straight week. Temperatures for the period averaged 76 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal and 1 degree below the previous period. High temperatures averaged from 89 in the West to 87 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 68 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.07 inches statewide which was 0.09 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.70 inches, Central 0.70 inches, Bluegrass 1.22 inches and East 0.76 inches, which was respectively 0.82 inches above normal, 0.38 inches below normal, 0.24 inches above normal and 0.23 inches below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Dix Dam to a high of 2.30 inches at Hardinsburg. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 9, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Unseasonably warm temperatures arrived over the weekend pushing average temperatures from 6 to 11 degrees above normal. Rainfall amounts were below normal and ranged from none to 4.3 inches with an average of .72 inches statewide. Some river bottoms have experienced flooding. Heavy rains over the weekend north of the Ohio River may cause additional crop loss as water levels rise. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 5.4 out of a possible seven. High temperatures at the end of the week stressed young corn and tobacco plants. Topsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 19 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 10 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent very short, 11 percent short, 78 percent adequate and 9 percent surplus. Major farm activities included putting up hay, planting soybeans, and setting tobacco. CORN: Corn planting reached 98 percent complete by Sunday, June 8. This is equal to the five year average and slightly behind last year. About 93 percent of the planted acreage had emerged, compared with 98 percent a year ago and the average of 95 percent. Emerged corn was in fair to excellent condition, with 5 percent rated poor, 18 percent fair, 61 percent good and 16 percent excellent. Height of the most advanced fields averaged 25 inches statewide, while average height of emerged corn was 15 inches. Some reports of armyworm infestations have been received. SOYBEANS: Planting made good progress during the week but remains behind last year and average. Fifty-eight percent was seeded by Sunday June 8, compared with 85 percent last year and the five year average of 69 percent. Thirty-six percent of planted acreage had emerged, compared with last year’s 73 percent and the average of 55. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 3 percent poor, 27 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. TOBACCO: High temperatures have stressed transplants and have slowed plant growth. Transplanting progressed well with 69 percent of the intended burley acreage set as of Sunday June 8, compared with 84 percent a year ago and the average of 74 percent. Dark tobacco acreage was 60 percent set, compared with 81 percent last year and the average of 76. Condition of set tobacco was reported as 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 30 percent fair, 55 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. About 90 percent of tobacco plants were less than 12 inches high with 10 percent 12-24 inches in height. SMALL GRAINS: Barley harvest was 33 percent complete at the end of the week, slightly behind last year’s 44 percent and the average of 49. Most producers expect a good quality crop. Wheat harvest is expected to begin the week of June 15, although continued warm weather may move up the harvesting date. Some reported wheat was turning color. Head scab and blight may affect yield and test weight and armyworms were a problem in a few areas. Most expectations are for excellent yields on wheat. Condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 53 percent good and 24 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Rain in northeast areas made hay harvest difficult but conditions improved toward the end of the week for making hay. Pastures were in mostly fair to good condition and were rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 50 percent good and 13 percent excellent. Grain sorghum planting advanced to 50 percent complete, well behind last year and the average. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period June 2 to 8, 2008 Above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall... A strong yet short-lived weather system early in the period accounted for the only rainfall last week in the Bluegrass State. For the majority of the week, strong high pressure set up over the southeastern United States and controlled weather in the Commonwealth. Unseasonably warm weather was the result as above normal temperatures were reported for the first time in six weeks. Warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and minimal rainfall led to a rapid progression of field activities. Temperatures for the period averaged 77 degrees across the state which was 7 degrees above normal and 9 degrees above the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 89 in the West to 87 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 72 degrees in the West to 66 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 11 degrees above normal in the West to 6 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.72 inches statewide which was 0.38 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.16 inches, Central 0.25 inches, Bluegrass 1.50 inches and East 0.98 inches, which was respectively 0.88 inches below normal, 0.93 inches below normal, 0.38 inches above normal and 0.10 inches below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 4.30 inches at Williamstown. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., June 2, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Temperatures averaged a more normal 68 degrees after two weeks of below normal readings. Western areas of Kentucky experienced above normal rainfall while central areas had very little moisture. Rainfall amounts ranged from .2 to 3.1 inches with an average of 1.18 inches statewide, slightly above normal. Weather conditions have put much of the state at least a week behind schedule. Days suitable for fieldwork averaged 4.4 out of a possible seven. Topsoil moisture was rated 5 percent short, 80 percent adequate and 15 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 6 percent short, 74 percent adequate and 20 percent surplus. Major farm activities this week included harvesting hay when possible, planting soybeans, setting tobacco and finishing up corn planting. CORN: Corn planting was nearing completion by Sunday, June 1, with 95 percent in the ground. A year ago, virtually all corn had been planted with the five year average at 96 percent. About 84 percent of the planted acreage had emerged, compared with 96 percent a year ago and the average of 92 percent. Emerged corn was in fair to excellent condition, with 6 percent rated poor, 20 percent fair, 59 percent good and 15 percent excellent. Height of the most advanced fields averaged 17 inches statewide, while average height of emerged corn was 10 inches. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, June 1, just 38 percent of the crop had been seeded. This is about two weeks behind last year and 10 days behind the average. Last year 74 percent had been seeded on June 1, and the five year average was 57 percent. About 18 percent of planted acreage had emerged, compared with last years 56 percent and the average of 42. Condition of emerged soybeans was rated 2 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. TOBACCO: Cool temperatures and wet weather have slowed the progress of the tobacco crop. Close to half of the intended burley acreage had been set by June 1. Producers reported 48 percent of the crop had been transplanted compared with 75 percent a year ago and the average of 58 percent. Dark tobacco acreage was 42 percent set, compared with 69 percent last year and the average of 58. Condition of set tobacco was reported as 4 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Some producers have mowed plants in beds several times to keep them small enough to set in the field. Other producers are dealing with transplants too small to set. SMALL GRAINS: Harvest should start late this week for barley. Most producers expect a good quality crop. Wheat harvest is expected to begin in southern Kentucky in about two weeks. Wet weather has caused some lodging, along with some concern that head scab and blight may affect yield and test weight. Wheat condition was reported as 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 45 percent good and 32 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS: Weather conditions have made hay harvest difficult. Much cut hay was rained on or had very poor curing conditions. Pastures were in fair to excellent condition and were rated 2 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 48 percent good and 10 percent excellent. Grain sorghum planting advanced to 30 percent complete, well behind last year and the average. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 26 to June 1, 2008 Near Normal Temperatures and Rainfall... Although state averaged precipitation was near normal, the amount of rainfall received varied greatly across the Commonwealth. A moisture rich weather system early in the period produced over 2 inches of rainfall for some locations in the West, resulting in well above average rainfall for the period at these locations. Some areas in Central and Bluegrass, however, received less than a tenth of an inch for the entire period; this resulted in significantly below average rainfall for these locations. Temperatures continued to be mild for the season with the 5th week in a row of normal or below normal temperatures. Temperatures for the period averaged 68 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal and 6 degrees above the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 82 in the West to 80 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 62 degrees in the West to 59 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees above normal in the West to 0 degrees from normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.18 inches statewide which was 0.04 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 2.30 inches, Central 1.58 inches, Bluegrass 0.28 inches and East 0.64 inches, which was respectively 1.13 inches above normal, 0.37 inches above normal, 0.92 inches below normal and 0.39 inches below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.07 inches at Lexington to a high of 4.60 inches at Evansville. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 27, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Below normal precipitation and temperatures was the trend across Kentucky last week. Temperatures for the week averaged 62 degrees across the State which was 6 degrees below normal. Total precipitation was 0.32 inches statewide, which was 0.79 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 85 percent adequate, and 13 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent short, 82 percent adequate, and 15 percent surplus. There were 5.2 days suitable for fieldwork. The primary farming activities for the week were cutting and baling hay, setting tobacco, planting corn and soybeans. TOBACCO: Tobacco setting continued to be behind last year and the five-year average. Thirty percent of the burley tobacco plants had been set, compared with 55 percent last year and the five-year average of 39 percent. Thirty-two percent of the dark tobacco had been set, behind last year’s 52 percent and the five- year average of 37 percent. Farmers reported the tobacco crop condition as 1 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. CORN: Corn producers have seeded 83 percent of their acres, compared to 98 percent last year, and 94 percent for the five-year average. Crop emergence was reported at 69 percent, below last year’s 92 percent and the five-year average of 86 percent. The average emerged corn height was 6 inches, with the most advanced height at 11 inches. Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 62 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. SOYBEANS: As of Sunday, May 25, soybeans were 23 percent planted compared to 55 percent last year and 44 percent for the five-year average. Soybeans emerged was reported at 8 percent, behind last year’s 30 percent and the five-year average of 26 percent. SMALL GRAINS: The winter wheat crop condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 44 percent good, and 34 percent excellent. Some farmers report that rain and cool weather has delayed their wheat crop development. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: As of Sunday, May 25, 22 percent of sorghum acres had been planted, behind last year’s 57 percent, and the five-year average of 41 percent. The hay crop condition was rated at 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 19 to May 25, 2008 Below normal rainfall and temperatures... The Commonwealth experienced another relatively dry week as no significant weather system impacted the state. Some counties in extreme northern Kentucky received near normal rainfall, but on the whole, the state remained dry. In fact, below normal rainfall was received for the 4th week out of the past 6. Mild temperatures continued to be the rule as above normal temperatures have not been reported in 4 weeks. The latest Palmer Drought Index holds West, Central and Bluegrass in a VERY MOIST SPELL; East is NEAR NORMAL hydrologic conditions. Temperatures for the period averaged 62 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees below normal. High temperatures averaged from 77 in the West to 73 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 52 degrees in the West to 49 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 8 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.32 inches statewide which was 0.79 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.07 inches, Central 0.10 inches, Bluegrass 0.58 inches and East 0.48 inches, which was 0.98, 1.01, 0.47 and 0.71 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Bardstown to a high of 1.31 inches at Covington. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 19, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above normal rainfall and below normal temperatures was the trend across the Commonwealth. Temperatures for the week averaged 58 degrees across the State which was 6 degrees below normal for the week. Total precipitation for the week was 1.36 inches statewide, which was 0.19 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 2 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 41 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 30 percent surplus. There were 2.3 days suitable for fieldwork. The primary farming activities for the week were setting tobacco, planting corn and soybeans. TOBACCO: Tobacco setting was behind last year and the five-year average, slowed by damp field conditions. Ten percent of the burley tobacco plants have been set, compared with 32 percent last year and the five-year average of 21 percent. Nine percent of the dark tobacco has been set, behind last year’s 28 percent and the five-year average of 18 percent. Farmers reported the tobacco crop condition as 6 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 14 percent excellent. ROW CROPS: Corn producers have seeded 73 percent of their acres, compared to 95 percent last year, and 90 percent for the five-year average. Crop emergence was reported at 54 percent, below last year’s 83 percent and the five-year average of 77 percent. The average emerged corn height was 4 inches, with the most advanced height at 7 inches. Corn condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 56 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. As of Sunday, May 18, soybeans were 12 percent planted compared to 33 percent last year and 29 percent for the five-year average. Soybeans emerged was reported at 5 percent, behind last year’s 7 percent and the five-year average of 8 percent. SMALL GRAINS: The winter wheat crop condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 34 percent excellent. Some farmers continued to report some lodging in their wheat crop. The winter wheat harvest is expected to begin June 17, and barley on June 11. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: As of Sunday, May 18, three percent of sorghum acres had been planted, behind last year’s 29 percent, and the five-year average of 24 percent. The hay crop condition was rated at 3 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Pasture condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 12 to 18, 2008 Above normal rainfall and below normal temperatures... A moist weather system swept across the Bluegrass State during the middle of last week, providing the Commonwealth with above normal rainfall for the 2nd time in the past 5 weeks. A cooler air mass filtered into the region during the period and allowed for unseasonably cool overnight temperatures. With rainfall amounts continuing to moderate, field activities continued to progress normally. The latest Palmer Drought Index shows that West is in an EXTREME MOIST SPELL, Central is in a VERY MOIST SPELL, Bluegrass is in an UNUSUAL MOIST SPELL, and East is NEAR NORMAL hydrologic conditions. Temperatures for the period averaged 58 degrees across the state which was 6 degrees below normal and 4 degrees less than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 70 in the West to 67 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 10 degrees below normal in the West to 9 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 52 degrees in the West to 50 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.36 inches statewide which was 0.19 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.20 inches, Central 1.45 inches, Bluegrass 1.259 inches and East 1.27 inches, which was 0.01, 0.17, 0.48 and 0.17 inches respectively above normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.47 inches at Berea to a high of 2.38 inches at Covington. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 12, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Normal temperatures and below normal rainfall prevailed across the Commonwealth this past week. Temperatures for the week averaged 62 degrees across the State which was normal for the week. Total precipitation for the week was 0.97 inches statewide, which was 0.06 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 7 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 29 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 6 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 22 percent surplus. There were 3.6 days suitable for fieldwork. The primary farming activities for the week were planting corn and soybeans, applying fertilizer, preparing soil for planting, setting tobacco and spraying weeds. TOBACCO: As of Sunday May 11, 7 percent of the burley tobacco plants have been set compared with 17 percent last year and the five-year average of 9 percent. Six percent of the dark tobacco has been set, behind of last’s year’s 15 percent and the five-year average of 7 percent. ROW CROPS: Corn planting continued to see good progress last week while it still continued to trail last year and the five-year average. As of Sunday May 11, 69 percent of the intended corn acreage had been planted compared to 89 percent last year and 85 percent for the five-year average. Last week 54 percent of the corn acreage had been planted. Corn emergence was reported at 40 percent, up from last week’s 18 percent while below last year’s 70 percent and the five year average of 68 percent. The condition of the emerged corn crop was rated 2 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 59 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Farmers continue to plant soybeans. As of Sunday 9 percent had been planted compared to 15 percent last year and 16 percent for the five-year average. Last week 5 percent had been planted. SMALL GRAINS: The winter wheat crop was rated 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Some lodging was reported following the rain and winds. Some farmers have been applying fungicides to their small grains. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Hay crops were rated 3 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Only a few reports of alfalfa weevil have been received. As of May 11, pasture condition was rated 2 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. As of Sunday, May 11, 2 percent of sorghum acreage had been planted. Strawberry growers reported 51 percent of their berries as small, 41 percent medium, and 8 percent as large. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period May 5 to 11, 2008 Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall... Despite two late week weather systems, rainfall amounts continued to moderate as below normal values were received for the 3rd time in the past 4 weeks. Although the Commonwealth did experience some severe weather, the state has not received the copious weekly rainfall totals since early April. Consequently, field activities continued normally for much of the week. Temperatures were once again near normal, holding the yearly departures to less than 1 degree from normal. The latest Palmer Drought Index shows that West and Central are in an EXTREME MOIST SPELL, Bluegrass is in a VERY MOIST SPELL, and East is NEAR NORMAL hydrologic conditions. Temperatures for the period averaged 62 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal and 6 degrees higher than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 72 in the West to 72 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 52 degrees in the West to 52 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 2 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.97 inches statewide which was 0.06 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.85 inches, Central 0.91 inches, Bluegrass 1.47 inches and East 0.79 inches, which was respectively 0.15 inches below normal, 0.21 inches below normal, 0.48 inches above normal and 0.24 inches below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.46 inches at Mayfield to a high of 3.57 inches at Grayson. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., May 5, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Below normal temperatures and above normal rainfall prevailed across the Commonwealth this past week. Temperatures for the week averaged 56 degrees across the State which was 4 degrees below normal. Total precipitation for the week was 1.48 inches statewide, which was 0.30 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 1 percent very short, 9 percent short, 76 percent adequate, and 14 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 79 percent adequate, and 13 percent surplus. There were 5.3 days suitable for fieldwork. The primary farming activities for the week were planting corn and soybeans, applying fertilizer, preparing soil for planting, setting tobacco and spraying weeds. TOBACCO: As of Sunday May 4, 29 percent of tobacco plants were less than 2 inches in height, 39 percent were 2 to 4 inches tall, and 32 percent were taller than 4 inches. Only 1 percent of burley tobacco acreage had been set compared to 6 percent the previous year. Three percent of dark tobacco had been set, equal to 2007. ROW CROPS: Corn planting saw significant progress last week while it still continued to trail last year and the five-year average. As of Sunday May 4, 54 percent of the intended corn acreage had been planted compared to 74 percent last year and 76 percent for the five-year average. Last week 31 percent of the corn acreage had been planted. Corn emergence was reported at 18 percent, up from last week’s 4 percent while below last year’s 45 percent and the five year average of 51 percent. The condition of the emerged corn crop was rated 23 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Farmers were slowly starting to plant soybeans. As of Sunday 5 percent had been planted which was the same as last year but behind the five-year average of 8 percent. SMALL GRAINS: The winter wheat crop headed or heading as of Sunday was 22 percent, behind last year’s 44 percent and the five year-average of 50 percent. Wheat condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 28 percent excellent. Some lodging was reported following the rain and winds this past Friday. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Hay crops were rated 3 percent very poor, 10 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 49 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Farmers expect the first date of alfalfa cutting to be around May 9th. Only a few reports of alfalfa weevil have been received. As of May 4, pasture condition was rated 3 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period April 28 to May 4, 2008 Below Normal Temperatures and Above Normal Rainfall... The Bluegrass State received above normal rainfall for the first time in 3 weeks, due largely to a potent cold front that swept through the region early last weekend. Temperatures for the period were below normal for the second time in the past 4 weeks as a cold air mass was in place over the Commonwealth early in the week. Overnight low temperatures dropped into the upper 20s and lower 30s in some locations on the last 2 days of April, resulting in some patchy frost. Despite receiving above normal rainfall, field conditions improved during the majority of the week. The latest Palmer Drought Index shows that West is in an EXTREME MOIST SPELL, Central and Bluegrass are in a VERY MOIST SPELL, and East is NEAR NORMAL hydrologic conditions. Temperatures for the period averaged 56 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees below normal and 8 degrees below the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 68 in the West to 68 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 8 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 46 degrees in the West to 47 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to 3 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.48 inches statewide which was 0.30 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.62 inches, Central 2.09 inches, Bluegrass 1.33 inches and East 1.04 inches, which was 0.23, 0.83, 0.19 and 0.04 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.35 inches at Mayfield to a high of 2.52 inches at Bowling Green ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., April 28, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall prevailed across the Commonwealth this past week. Temperatures for the week averaged 64 degrees across the State which was 5 degrees above normal. Total precipitation for the week was 0.29 inches statewide, which was 0.64 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 5 percent short, 79 percent adequate, and 16 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent short, 80 percent adequate, and 17 percent surplus. There were 5.5 days suitable for fieldwork. The primary farming activities for the week were planting corn, seeding tobacco, applying fertilizer, spraying weeds, plowing, marketing cattle, and working on farm equipment. In some areas soil saturation continues. TOBACCO: As of Sunday April 27, 43 percent of tobacco plants were less than 2 inches in height, 37 percent were 2 to 4 inches tall, and 20 percent were taller than 4 inches. ROW CROPS: Corn planting progress continued to be behind last year and the five-year average. As of Sunday April 27, 31 percent of the intended corn acreage had been planted compared to 54 percent for last year and 64 percent for the five-year average. Last week 11 percent of the intended corn acreage had been planted. Corn emergence was reported at 4 percent, below last year’s 18 percent and the five year average of 30 percent. The condition of the corn crop was rated 3 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 11 percent excellent. Farmers were slowly planting soybeans, with 2 percent planted as of Sunday which was the same as the previous year and 4 percent for the five-year average. Producers indicate that nitrogen fertilizer supplies in their area were 95 percent of normal. SMALL GRAINS: Seven percent of the winter wheat crop had headed, well behind last year’s 16 percent and the five year-average of 20 percent. Winter wheat condition was rated 5 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 20 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Hay crops were rated 3 percent very poor, 11 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Farmers expect the first date of alfalfa cutting to be around May 9th. Only a few reports of alfalfa weevil have been received. As of April 27, pasture condition was 5 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period April 21 to 27, 2008 Above Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall... The Bluegrass State experienced a warm and relatively dry week as high pressure controlled the weather for most of the period. Decent drying conditions and below normal rainfall for the second straight week allowed field activities to progress across the state. Warmer temperatures were finally being felt as last week was only the second week to experience above normal temperatures since mid- February. According to the latest Palmer Drought Index, the Commonwealth is becoming drier: West is in an EXTREME MOIST SPELL, Central and Bluegrass are in a VERY MOIST SPELL, and East is NEAR NORMAL hydrologic conditions. Temperatures for the period averaged 64 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees above normal and 13 degrees above the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 77 in the West to 76 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 7 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 52 degrees in the West to 53 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 3 degrees above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 0.29 inches statewide which was 0.64 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 0.46 inches, Central 0.39 inches, Bluegrass 0.24 inches and East 0.13 inches, which was 0.50, 0.52, 0.69 and 0.80 inches respectively below normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.00 inches at Cumberland Gap to a high of 0.53 inches at Cape Girardeau. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., April 21, 2008 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: Precipitation and below normal temperatures continued across the Commonwealth this past week. Temperatures for the week averaged 51 degrees across the State which was 5 degrees below normal. Total precipitation for the week was 0.19 inches statewide, which was 0.80 inches below normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 1 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 39 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 40 percent surplus. There were 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork. The main farming activities for the week were planting corn, seeding tobacco, applying fertilizer, spraying weeds, plowing, marketing cattle, and working on farm equipment. In some areas soil saturation and wet weather did not permit much fieldwork. TOBACCO: For 2008, 94 percent of tobacco plants will be grown in greenhouses compared to 6 percent in conventional beds. As of Sunday April 20, 64 percent of tobacco plants were less than 2 inches in height, 25 percent were 2 to 4 inches tall, and 11 percent were taller than 4 inches. CORN: Corn planting progress continued to be behind last year and the five year average. As of Sunday April 20, 11 percent of the intended corn acreage had been planted compared to 39 percent for last year and 47 percent for the five year average. Last week 1 percent of the intended had been planted. SMALL GRAINS: Winter wheat condition was rated 3 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 20 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 26 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Farmers expect the first date of alfalfa cutting to be around May 9th. This year’s anticipated alfalfa hay crop will be a welcome change from last year’s freeze and drought reduced crop. As of April 20, condition of strawberry crop was 1 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 52 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Pasture condition was 5 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 34 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Kentucky Weather Summary For the Period April 14 to 20, 2008 Below Normal Temperatures and Below Normal Rainfall: Last week was the driest week since January for the Bluegrass state as high pressure dominated eastern U.S. and provided a return to drier outdoor working conditions during the workweek. A significant but short warming trend occurred during the middle of the week. The week started out dry and cool but ended with light rainfall and cooler temperatures on the weekend. Areas of frost were reported on Tuesday morning (Apr. 15). Temperatures for the period averaged 51 degrees across the state which was 5 degrees below normal and 7 degrees cooler than the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 64 in the West to 65 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 42 degrees in the West to 41 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 5 degrees below normal in the West to 4 degrees below normal in the East. Rainfall for the past 7 day period totaled 0.19 inches statewide which was 0.80 inches below normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 0.30 inches, Central 0.21 inches, Bluegrass 0.12 inches and East 0.12 inches, which was 0.77, 0.80, 0.81 and 0.80 inches respectively below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.03 inches at Somerset to a high of 0.69 inches at Evansville. --- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., April 14, 2008 MJH 34-07 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The week began with relatively little precipitation and increasingly warmer weather. Temperatures fell by the latter part of the week bringing periods of rain and drizzle that lasted through the weekend. Temperatures averaged 58 degrees, 4 degrees above normal for this point in the season. Total precipitation for the week was 1.07 inches, which was 0.28 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 1 percent short, 29 percent adequate, and 70 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 3 percent short, 43 percent adequate, and 54 percent surplus. There were 2.2 days suitable for fieldwork. The main farming activity for the week was tobacco seeding as the wet weather and soil saturation did not permit much fieldwork. TOBACCO: As of April 13, plant bed and greenhouse seeding was 84 percent complete. This was 1 percent below the previous year and equal to the five year average. Emergence of transplants reached 55 percent, down 7 percent from last year and down 1 percent from the 5 year average. Tobacco transplants condition was rated as 3 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 61 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. CORN: Corn planting progress continued to be hampered by wet conditions and showed very little progress from last week with 1 percent of intended acreage in the ground. This was down 27 percent from the previous year and down 25 percent from the 5 year average. SMALL GRAINS: Winter wheat condition was rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 43 percent good, and 35 percent excellent. Barley condition was 1 percent poor, 4 percent fair, 47 percent good, and 48 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Early fruit crops remain in relatively good shape with no freeze damage. Average height of alfalfa was 7 inches. Pasture condition was 6 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 33 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period April 7 to 13, 2008 Above normal temperatures and rainfall... The Bluegrass State received above normal rainfall for the fourth straight week, due largely to a late week weather system that also produced severe weather. The Commonwealth did experience above normal temperatures for the first time in 9 weeks, but a cold airmass filtered into the region late and brought morning lows into the 30s during the weekend. Wet conditions continue to be problematic across the state: the latest Palmer Drought Index holds the majority of the state in an EXTREME MOIST SPELL, with east Kentucky in an INCIPIENT MOIST SPELL. Temperatures for the period averaged 58 degrees across the state which was 4 degrees above normal and 6 degrees above last week. High temperatures averaged from 65 in the West to 69 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 4 degrees below normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 49 degrees in the West to 50 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 4 degrees above normal in the West to 8 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.07 inches statewide which was 0.28 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.66 inches, Central 1.13 inches, Bluegrass 0.83 inches and East 0.75 inches, which was 0.74, 0.28, 0.08 and 0.05 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 0.14 inches at Bristol to a high of 2.70 inches at Nashville. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., April 7, 2008 MJH 34-07 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: The first week of April consisted of gradually rising temperatures and periods of heavy rain. Wet conditions hampered prospective fieldwork throughout the week and caused flooding in some areas. Temperatures averaged 52 degrees, normal for this time of year. Total precipitation for the week was 3.46 inches, which was 2.44 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 1 percent short, 25 percent adequate, and 74 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 2 percent short, 39 percent adequate, and 59 percent surplus. There were 1.5 days suitable for fieldwork. The main farming activity for the week was tobacco seeding as the weather did not permit other tasks. TOBACCO: As of April 6, plant bed and greenhouse seeding was 73 percent complete. This was 4 percent below the previous year but 2 percent above the five year average. Emergence of transplants reached 38 percent, down 2 percent from last year but equal to the 5 year average. CORN: Corn planting progress was adversely affected by the wet weather with 1 percent of intended acreage in the ground. This was down 21 percent from the previous year and down 11 percent from the 5 year average. SMALL GRAINS: The average height for winter wheat was 10 inches. Winter wheat condition was rated 3 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 57 percent good, and 23 percent excellent. Barley condition was 3 percent poor, 8 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 36 percent excellent. OTHER CROPS AND PASTURE: Early fruit crops are in relatively good shape with no freeze damage. Due to wet weather, first cutting of alfalfa has been delayed. Pasture condition was 11 percent very poor, 29 percent poor, 35 percent fair, 22 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Wet conditions continued as the Bluegrass State received above normal rainfall for the third week in a row. Over the past 30 days, the state as a whole has received over 9 inches of rain. Showers and thunderstorms from a slow moving frontal boundary dropped copious amounts of rain across an already saturated Commonwealth and once again created widespread flooding. Temperatures were right at normal yet again for the second week of Spring. The latest Palmer Drought Index holds the majority of the state in a VERY MOIST SPELL, with east Kentucky NEAR NORMAL hydrologic conditions. Temperatures for the period averaged 52 degrees across the state which was 0 degrees from normal and 4 degrees above last week. High temperatures averaged from 60 in the West to 60 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 7 degrees below normal in the West to 1 degree below normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 43 degrees in the West to 45 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from 1 degree above normal in the West to 5 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 3.46 inches statewide which was 2.44 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 4.67 inches, Central 3.94 inches, Bluegrass 3.49 inches and East 2.18 inches, which was 3.58, 2.90, 2.53 and 1.19 inches respectively above normal. By station, precipitation totals ranged from a low of 1.31 inches at Bristol to a high of 5.69 inches at Nolin Lake. ---- Kentucky Crop and Weather Report Issued 4:00 P.M., March 31, 2008 MJH 34-07 AGRICULTURAL NEWS: March ended with adequate amounts of rainfall and near average temperatures sustaining crop and pasture growth. Heavy rainfall in the middle of the month resulted in flood conditions for the western part of the State and along the Ohio River. For the last week of March the average temperature across the State was 48 degrees, 1 degree below normal. The amount of precipitation averaged 1.04 inches, 0.01 inches above normal. Topsoil moisture was 1 percent short, 43 percent adequate, and 56 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 2 percent very short, 3 percent short, 50 percent adequate, and 45 percent surplus. There were 2.7 days, out of the possible 7, suitable for fieldwork. Farm work during the week consisted primarily of tobacco seeding, fertilization, and planting preparation. The supply of Nitrogen fertilizer available is expected to meet 95 percent of anticipated need. Planting preparation, including plowing and fertilization, was 19 percent complete. TOBACCO: As of March 30, plant bed and greenhouse seeding was 56 percent complete. Seeding completion was behind that of last year but ahead of average. SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES: Due to a relatively mild winter, the State’s winter wheat crop is in mostly good condition. Winter wheat lost due to winter kill was reported at 3 percent. The condition of winter wheat was 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 60 percent good, and 19 percent excellent. The barley acreage lost to winter kill was reported at 1 percent. Barley condition was 9 percent fair, 78 percent good, and 13 percent excellent. Alfalfa stand loss was 10 percent, while red clover stand loss was 9 percent. PASTURE & LIVESTOCK: Pasture condition was reported as 14 percent very poor, 25 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 18 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Pastures were meeting 18 percent of livestock roughage requirements. Ninety-one percent of farms statewide were still providing livestock with winter feed. Farmers statewide had approximately 10 percent of their winter hay supply still on hand. Livestock were in mostly fair condition. Kentucky Climate Summary For the Period March 24 to 30, 2008 Above normal rainfall and below normal temperatures... The first full week of Spring proved to be a mild one weather-wise as near normal temperatures and rainfall were reported. The majority of rainfall in the Bluegrass State fell on Thursday and Friday as a stalled frontal boundary kicked off showers and thunderstorms throughout the two day period. Temperatures still showed a little hint of winter lingering as morning lows dropped below the freezing mark throughout the state a few times in the period. The latest Palmer Drought Index holds the majority of the state in a VERY MOIST SPELL, with east Kentucky NEAR NORMAL hydrologic conditions. Temperatures for the period averaged 48 degrees across the state which was 1 degree below normal and 1 degree above the previous week. High temperatures averaged from 58 in the West to 58 in the East. Departure from normal high temperatures ranged from 6 degrees below normal in the West to normal in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 40 degrees in the West to 39 degrees in the East. Departure from normal low temperature ranged from normal in the West to 2 degrees above normal in the East. Rainfall for the period totaled 1.04 inches statewide which was 0.01 inches above normal. Rainfall totals by climate division, West 1.02 inches, Central 0.69 inches, Bluegrass 1.75 inches and East 0.69 inches, which was respectively 0.11 inches below normal, 0.36 inches below normal, 0.74 inches above normal and 0.27 inches below normal. By station, rainfall totals ranged from a low of 0.09 inches at Bowling Green to a high of 3.50 inches at Williamstown. ----Fetched URL: http://weather.uky.edu/public/SDFWCRSDF_2008
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