Wheat Crop Improving with Rain

May 22, 2010

(GARDEN PLAIN, Kan)

Less than three weeks ago, farmers were struggling. Dry, cracked soil made the outlook for unplanted crops, and planted crops, pretty bleak.

"We're better off than we were two weeks ago because we've got the adequate moisture for now."

Wheat fields are beginning to turn color, and for farmer and State Representative Dan Kerschen, that's a relief.

"We're looking at maybe average. It won't be a tremendous crop but it's definitely better than what we had started out with."

All of our recent rain may have helped with the moisture level of the wheat but the Kansas wind has blown in a whole new problem.

High winds blow in crop diseases, like rust. Since things have gone from very dry, to very wet, those diseases are able to grow and survive.

"If it would have stayed dry like it was we wouldn't have seen any rust, it can't exist in that kind of condition."

With harvest hopefully starting in less than a month, cooperative weather is a farmer's best chance at keeping their crops healthy.

"We've got four weeks to go...plus harvest time."

Rep. Kerschen is serving his first term in the Kansas House and will be seeking reelection this fall.

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