Drought Resources

February has started with a wintry note, particularly in the Eastern third of the state.  While temperatures have remained fairly close to normal, snowfall levels have been above long-term averages.  Some locations in Northeastern KS have seen over a foot of snow in the first 7 days, where seasonal averages are only around 14 inches.

The La Niña is expected to continue through the Spring.  Despite the forecast for a wet start to the month, the February outlook is for drier than normal conditions.  As we move into the Spring, the outlook continues to be less positive.  Precipitation is likely to be less than normal.

Here are the latest drought conditions, the state view of the Drought Monitor, storm totals for February 5-6th, departure from normal precipitation through February 6, and the 8-10 day precipitation outlook:

For additional information check out these links:

Weather Data Library at K-State Research & Extension

Weather For Burning
  NWS Topeka Fire Weather
   NWS Wichita Fire Weather
   NWS Dodge City Fire Weather
   National Fire Weather Information

State Fire Marshall Office

Current Drought Conditions
                   Kansas Water Office drought report (pdf)      02/08/2008

Agricultural Policy Information

Drought Decision Aids, Options, and Considerations for:

Crops
Livestock
Horticulture
Municipal and Home

Recent Topics:
Updated spreadsheets for Valuing Droughty Silage:
                                                              EXCEL version    7/31/06
                                                              Quattro version  7/31/06

Black Light Test for Aflatoxin Is Questionable Process           8/29/03

The Lawn Weeds Are Ahead, But Wait Before Fighting Back   8/27/03

Ornamental Plants Need Help to Survive Summer’s Dry Heat   8/21/03

Forage Options for Soybeans  by Twig Marston

Reduce Risks from Heat                                         7/23/03

Agronomy in Action                                            July 2003

In addition,  check the K-State news section for latest articles.

Kansas Farm Bureau Haying and Grazing Web Site

 

What's Next

Other Contacts

Kansas Agricultural Mediation Services (KAMS) is the official USDA certified agricultural mediation service for the Kansas agricultural community. Through a toll free hotline trained professionals (including farm financial analysts, attorneys and mediators) provide confidential assistance and information. The program's goal is to help resolve conflicts and disputes using mediation with respect to agricultural debt as well as USDA adverse decisions. KAMS is a project of K-State Research and Extension. To learn more about mediation and its role in agriculture check out the KAMS web site  or call
1-800-321-FARM (3276).