Current Wisconsin weather and climate conditions

• March has been a warmer-than-normal month, aided by increasingly sunny days and limited snowpack.​ 
• March has been wetter-than-normal for most, except NW WI, in terms of precipitation (rain+melted snow).​ 
• As of the end of March, snow cover is limited to the northeast quarter of the state.

Impact

• Soil moisture estimates are improving for most due to recent precip, except for deteriorating conditions in NW WI.​ 
• Over the last month, USDM drought severity coverage decreased along E and S WI, but increased slightly in west-central WI.​ 
• Deep soil frost has thawed greatly for most but lingering (20”+) for some. Wisconet soil temp measurements at 20” depth are mostly above freezing.​ 

Outlook for Wisconsin weather and climate

• Statewide chances for 7-day precip; more so for south-central & west-central to northeast WI. Potential for impactful wintry mix Fri-Sun and snow possible Wed (Apr 2).​ 
• For the beginning of April, chances are slightly leaning toward above-normal temperatures and precipitation.​ 
• April as a whole and the rest of spring show a slight lean toward above-normal temperatures and precipitation for S & E WI, with uncertainty (equal chances) for both temperature and precipitation for the rest of WI.​ 

Agronomic considerations

• Field Work and Conditions
  • Soil temperatures to 4″ still cool, ensure temps are reaching 50 degrees at a minimum before planting. See WiscoNet. ​ 
  • Avoid trafficking fields in moist conditions to prevent compaction and rutting. ​ 
  • Avoid fertilizer applications in wet and cool conditions. Nitrogen loss is greater in wet conditions.  ​ 
  • In drier regions of the state, consider earlier-termination of cover crops to retain soil moisture if conditions remain dry. ​ 
• Manure Applications
  • Reminder of Wisconsin’s NR 151 Runoff Rules with the timing of manure spreading and current runoff levels. Check DATCP Runoff Risk Advisory Forecast.
• Pest Management ​ 
  • Start scouting fields by foot to note any early emerging weeds. ​ 
• Forage Management ​ 
  • Check alfalfa fields for signs of winterkill.​ 
• Small Grains​ 
  • Assess winter grain stands. Likely too early to fertilize winter wheat yet.​ 
  • If warmer weather continues, there is potential for early planting of spring grains, but be aware of continuing possibility of freeze.​ 
• Livestock Considerations
  • Keep livestock out of critical and sensitive areas with soft, muddy ground, see this article on the value of keeping cattle clean.
  • Regulate body temperature and wetness of calves. Make sure dry bedding (e.g., hay, grass) is available to keep calves dry.
• Specialty Crops​
  • Small scale producers may consider tarping fields with adequate soil moisture to avoid spring rains for later planting​.
  • Check overwintered high tunnel crops such as hardy greens for winter cutworm damage which are active at 40F​.
  • Prune fruit trees and grapevines while still dormant​.

If you would like to obtain a PowerPoint copy of this report, please email rue.genger@wisc.edu.