The cool wet weather has been more of a hindrance for many in the Ag community over the last couple of weeks, with the exception of are soils.  Marilyn Lohmann with the National Weather Service said this weekend’s showers brought anywhere from 1/3” to nearly ½” of rain to the area.  She says that was a huge help for soil moisture.

 

“In fact, I’m sure a few fields are kind of muddy, and unable to be worked at this time, but there are a few areas in the lower Columbia Basin especially along the Oregon/Washington boarder that show that lower soil moisture in the top layer, but overall soil moisture remains fairly good across the area.”

 

However, soil temperatures continue to lag because of the cool wet weather we’ve seen.  As far as the week ahead, Lohmann says for those that need to spay, the forecast does not look very inviting.

 

“We’re looking at another weather front coming through late Wednesday and Thursday that will bring once again those stronger winds.  Winds will be light ahead of the system, so maybe you can get a little work done on Wednesday, but it does look like wide spread rain late Wednesday and Thursday a long with a slight chance of thunderstorms.”

Friday should stabilize and turn a bit warmer.

 

 

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com

More From PNW Ag Network