Drought Conditions Easing But Still A Concern
(KLZA) A cool, rainy spring is easing dry conditions in parts of the nation's farm belt that saw the worst of last year's drought.
But optimism is being tempered, as that weather pattern has kept anxious farmers in most of Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, and Wisconsin from planting.
The latest drought monitor released Thursday shows snowmelt and rain replenished ground moisture in parts of eastern Iowa, northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Central Iowa counties are improved but still short of moisture.
Rain has helped drought-parched areas of Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska, but many counties remain woefully dry.
There is enough topsoil moisture in much of the farm belt to allow plants to emerge, but no deep moisture to rely on if the rain stops again.
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Effingham woman killed Friday in Atchison wreck
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Atchison man involved in fatal NW MO crash
Rural Horton man arrested on multiple drug charges
Street lights to be discussed at Monday city meeting
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Meteorologist Spencer: Geometric Watch means electronic disruptions
Two file to challenge local legislator
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
USD 430 Board accepts resignations, approves new hires
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Truck fire at CGB facility in Falls City
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
BC's Pate remembered by students, college family
LATEST STORIES
Memorial Day enforcement hits KS roads
Plastic ducks set to race in Atchison Saturday
Record number of grads for Atchison's BC
Vacancy filled on USD 415 board
Candidate files for Nemaha Co Treasurer
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Wed signing means full funding for KS education
RELATED STORIES
University of Nebraska Receives Grant for Drought Risk Research Center
Rain Lessens Drought Concerns in Parts of Nebraska, Iowa
Storm System Helps Ease Drought
Disaster Declaration for Nebraska Counties Due to Drought
Drought Concerns NE Gov. Heineman
Signs Drought may be Easing in Nebraska
Humboldt Farmer Testifies at U.S. Senate Ag Committee Hearing
Drought, Crop Insurance Among Concerns of Nebraska Farm Bureau
Illinois Climatologist Says Drought May Continue Through Next Year