Dry weather is grasping tight on Kansans, while currently, more than 98 percent of Kansas is under extremely dry or drought-like conditions. Around the state, families, and farmers are feeling the effects from their wallets to the dinner table.
“We are drought stressed,” said a local Kansas farmer. The current dry conditions are concerning farmers around the area. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, only 13 percent of wheat is in good to excellent condition. Poor wheat productions will affect families globally as Kansas, the breadbasket of the world produces one-fifth of all wheat grown in the United States.
For two consecutive years, heavy spring rain has pulled the protein levels of the wheat crop down which has led to a decrease in the acres planted. Companies like Campbell’s soup is expected to raise their prices by 2 to 3 percent during 2018. This could very well be because of the rapid decline in wheat prices and lack of protein found in the wheat.
“It is financially hard on everyone,” said a local lifetime farmer. The dry conditions are expected to continue to take a toll on crops, livestock, and families throughout the spring and summer.
Dry weather is also causing the concern for more wildfires across areas of Kansas. Last month, high winds and dry ground burned parts of Nebraska and Kansas leaving thousands of acres to perish.
According to KWCH meteorologist Mark Larson,“it will take 6 to 12 inches of moisture, but not all at once,” to get back on track for normal conditions.
Farmers and families are ready for a drink of water, but mother nature does not look to be giving in anytime soon. Until then, the dehydrated state will find some shade and cool air while waiting for a bath.
