Louisiana Parish Agents: Rain is Needed

Drought-like conditions continue across much of Louisiana.  In this week's Louisiana Crop Progress and Condition Report, LSU AgCenter parish agents said the dry weather is causing a lot of problems this fall.

“Sugarcane planting wrapped up the first of last week. Hay producers have completed their second cutting in most places. Drier weather has allowed sugarcane harvest to continue; however, a rain is needed for plant cane.” – Mark Carriere, Pointe Coupee Parish

“Rain is needed as dry conditions continue. Sugarcane harvest continued with few issues and respectful sugar values. Many fields with older stubble that have been harvested are being plowed out and prepared for next year. Some plant cane fields have been cultivated to help row integrity. Cattle producers have baled hay and prepared land for ryegrass but have not planted due to dry conditions. Crawfish producers continued to flood ponds and prepare for the upcoming season.” – Blair Hebert, Iberia Parish

“Moisture is needed to help plant cane. Some areas received up to four inches of rain but was quickly absorbed by dry fields. Soybean harvest is wrapping up with growers reporting yields in the upper 30-bushel range. Cattle producers are planting winter pastures.” – Stuart Gauthier, Saint Martin Parish

“Pastures are getting really dry. More soybean harvest continued last week. The second rice crop needs irrigation. Some ryegrass is being planted. A lot of fieldwork was done over the last two weeks. A good shower across the parish is needed.” – James “Jimmy” Meaux, Calcasieu Parish

“Fall vegetables are beginning to come in strong with cooler temperatures.” – Anna Timmerman, Jefferson Parish