Moisture boost to help wheat farmers this planting season

A year ago, Oklahoma wheat farmers faced bone-dry conditions.

But not this planting season.

Things are markedly improved, thanks to an exceptionally wet 2019.

Heavy rainfall in north-central and northeastern portions of Oklahoma has increased statewide rainfall averages to 10 inches above normal in some places.

According to Wes Lee, agriculture coordinator with the Oklahoma Mesonet, wheat growers are getting a nice boost going into planting season.

“In my opinion, the soil moisture is in pretty good shape, statewide,” Lee said.“Like the drought map, there are pockets that are drier than other parts of the state.

“The northeast and north-central areas, where they’ve been getting excessive rainfall, soil moisture is at full saturation, as wet as it can get.

The state's wheat belt is in good shape, he said.

“Not abnormally wet, not severely dry,” Lee said. “Some places could use a little more rain, a little more moisture in the soil, but I think we’re in pretty good shape to start the season off.”

Lee expects rainfall rates to be average as Oklahoma transitions from fall into winter weather patterns the next several months.

“There are no strong climate indications, one way or the other, so we’re not expecting anything out of the ordinary,” Lee said.

“Whatever is normal for your region, that’s the best prediction I can provide you, going forward this year."

Wheat Squared is sponsored by the Oklahoma Wheat Commission and Oklahoma Genetics, Inc. Visit wheatsquared.com to learn more.