Weather Forecast Released for Jan-March 2013 Cycle.

 

Dr. Mario A. Villarino, County Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources

 

 

As I wrote this document, the rain event of this week was bringing significant precipitation over Hopkins County. Early indicators of more than 3 inches of rain in a single event were reported and based on my observations, they seem to be accurate. As we move on into 2013, planning is happening for the spring planting cycle and the weather pattern is starting to take shape. The drought monitor forecast from NOAA predictors indicates that drought will continue at least until March 2013 (see map).

(Source http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/expert_assessment/seasonal_drought.htm)

 

“One thing that most people don’t realize is that this drought is going to have an impact on the trees that were damaged in 2011 for probably five to seven years from now,” said Dr. David Appel, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service plant pathologist. “And that’s assuming that we get normal rainfall. If we have another drought, that could set them back even further.”

 

 

 

The red oak was impacted by the drought of 2011. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialists say the drought will have lingering effects from the drought for perhaps seven years, even if normal rainfall occurs. Appel, who specializes in trees, said certain diseases are going to be on the increase because of the drought. The Texas A&M Forest Service estimates 301 million rural trees and 5.6 million urban trees died from the 2011 drought and its impact.  It is important that before you plan your crops for this year you maintain yourself informed about the progress of the drought and make adjustments accordingly. For more information on this or other agricultural topics please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443.

Upcoming events:  Northeast Texas Cattleman’s Conference, January 30, 2013. Winnboro City Auditorium, 8:00 to 2:30 pm. Cost $15 meal included. Sponsored by Texas AgriLife Extension Service and NETBIO. Four  CEU’s  for Private Applicators. Call 903-885-3443 to register.

 

 

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