South Dakota is facing an intense period referred to as "The Big Burn". The excessive heat, coupled with an ongoing drought, is proving challenging for the fall crops. Rainfall has been unpredictable. Some areas have received as little as 1 inch of rain in the last six weeks, while others have seen up to 3 inches.
The soil has lacked enough moisture throughout the season. Any rain that does fall is quickly absorbed by thirsty plants, not giving it a chance to seep deep into the ground.
Surprisingly, crops have shown resilience given these adverse conditions. The most severe heat arrived later in the growing season, which proved fortunate. If this had happened a month earlier, crop yields might have been gravely affected. Differences in crop management and soil fertility practices have become evident during these trying times.
There's hope that with timely rain, the current crop conditions will hold, especially for the filling of soybeans.
Farmers are also gearing up for the next season. Seed wheat for the coming fall is in short supply due to poor yields in the region. Some farmers who are working with specialists have taken measures to improve soil conditions. Such partnerships have yielded positive results over the past years. Activities like tiling in wheat stubble are proving beneficial for crop rotation.
Life on the farm continues with mowing road ditches and fixing waterways. With schools reopening and autumn approaching, the community hopes for better days and encourages everyone to stay safe and cool during hot times.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: South Dakota, Crops