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Drought

compiled 8/2007

Managing crops, natural resources, livestock, home and community areas during extremely dry and hot weather can be complicated and stressful. The following resources may be helpful to Minnesotans to make the best decisions possible during heat wave and drought conditions.

Climatic Information

photo: Drought stressed cornDryness has been entrenched across most of Minnesota for much of the summer. Rainfall for the ten-week period from June 5 through August 14 totaled less than four inches in many locations in the southern two thirds of Minnesota. In these areas, rainfall totals for the period were five or more inches short of the historical average. In a few areas, the June 5 - August 14 rainfall totals were near all-time record low values. The timing of the dry weather is unfortunate. The period from May through September is historically the wettest time of the year in Minnesota. Long-term average rainfall rates during this time interval are around one inch per week. Very dry weather, occurring during a time of year when ample rain is typical, leads to the rapid intensification of drought. The lack of precipitation, along with very high evaporation rates, led to deteriorating crop conditions, lower stream flows and lake levels, and increased wildfire danger.

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Extreme Heat

More people in this country die from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined. Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. Under normal conditions, the body's internal thermostat produces perspiration that evaporates and cools the body. However, in extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. (West Virginia Extension Service)

Crop Management

Dry weather can make decisions regarding crop management more challenging. What crop to plant, variety, pest/weed management, and insurance are critical decisions all affected by dry conditions.

For areas facing drought conditions, moisture conservation will be of utmost importance. Consideration should be given to using tillage routines that conserve soil moisture, selecting crops and varieties that require less moisture, and managing weeds to avoid moisture competition.

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Livestock Feed, Health, and Nutrition

Livestock are affected by dry weather both by their increased water needs and also the possibility of feed shortages. Caring for your animals and business are critical during this time.

Note: Meeker and Pipestone counties have been approved for CRP grazing.

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Home Landscapes and Lawns

Drought and the watering bans that accompany it can wreak havoc on landscapes and lawns. Planting drought resistant selections, using conservative watering schemes, mulching, and knowing how to recognize and repair damage can be useful ways to enjoy landscapes even in dry weather.

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Lakes and Shoreland Management

Drought can be both a challenge and an opportunity for homeowners lucky enough to have lakeshore. Low water levels can affect recreation, aesthetics, and bacteria levels, but can also be a good time to plant native shoreland plants since substrate is exposed.

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Fire Safety

The severe dryness in the northern part of the state has already led to winter wildfires and is creating an extreme fire danger.

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Family, Stress, and Economic Impacts

Drought not only puts stress on landscapes, crops, and livestock, it can also add large amounts of stress to budgets and relationships.

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For further information about managing drought affected crops and livestock, call the Farm Information Line at (800) 232-9077 or contact your local Extension Ag Technical Advisor.


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URL: http://www.extension.umn.edu/administrative/disasterresponse/wi_drought.htm  This page was updated July 6, 2008. 
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