With the recent onslaught of rain, local farmers are hopeful its short-lived.
Shawn Geffert, whose farms include much of the envied rich river bottom soil, is not too distraught: Id rather have it wet than dry, even if it does flood, he said.
Even so, with his corn under water for a second time this month, his confidence is waning.
Some guys say if corns under water for 36 hours, it will be destroyed. I dont know for sure. Well find out.
Not only does corn metaphorically drown, but standing in water for too long leaves a coating of silt. If that is the only concern, a shower within a few days, as happened earlier this month, may be a remedy.
Unfortunately, the forecast is for rain, perhaps heavy rain, today through the first of next week.
I do have my corn insured, which would be helpful if I decide to replant. Also, there still is enough time to put in more and expect it to produce a well.
His upland corn, meanwhile, has been blessed by the wet weather. It has great potential, Geffert said.
With his wheat in the latter stages of maturity, inundation poses a grave concern.
If its underwater, its probably going to be damaged. Ive heard 24 hours is pretty much the limit.
Typically by now, a good portion of soybeans would be in the ground.
I planted 150 acres of beans Friday, Geffert said. Fledgling plants have yet to break forth. The cool weather and rain hasnt been good for them, but theres still plenty of time.
Seldom does a dark cloud appear without the proverbial silver lining.
Kylee (his wife) and I were out looking at a pasture yesterday and I told here, Look at this grass. Its as good as Ive ever seen. Were going to have good pasture for quite a while.
And, said Geffert, the ponds are all full.
However, the longer rain and flooding persists, the more the crops will be affected, pushing back harvest.
Adversity, though, is no stranger to farmers. They always are at the mercy of the weather, for good or ill.