Weather and climate conditions this week in Wisconsin
Here are this month’s take-home points about the weather. Scroll down for the full downloadable report.
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.