MADISON, WI (AP)-- As the drought continues, Wisconsin's corn crop remains in sad shape.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture said Monday that 43 percent of the state's corn crop is in very poor or poor condition, with just 31 percent rated as good to excellent. Hay yields are coming up short due to a lack of moisture, plus insects. Only 23-percent of the state's soil has adequate moisture, with 46-percent of the state very short.
Farmers suffering under the drought will now be allowed to harvest hay and graze cattle on about 11,500 acres of state-owned land. Governor Scott Walker made the announcement Monday.
The special harvest ends August 10 for prairie grasses and August 30 for cool season grasses. Only one cutting of hay will be allowed. Farmers will have to sign an agreement saying the hay being taken from state property will be used for livestock and not sold.
More information is available at 888-936-7463 or at www.dnr.wi.gov.
