(Radio Iowa) – As spring nears, farmers are starting to worry again about moisture levels, because the latest U-S Drought Monitor map for Iowa shows almost a fifth of the state is in extreme drought, with more than half of Iowa in severe drought. Angie Rieck-Hinz, a field agronomist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, says it’s been 190-some straight weeks of drought for the state and planting season is just a few weeks away. “We hope we get some more rain before we get in the field, definitely, but if we don’t, we’re going to really need some very timely rains throughout this growing season to keep enough water supplied to those crops,” Rieck-Hinz says. “We just don’t have a whole lot in our soil right now or subsoil that those plants can draw from.”

Even with several heavy snows in January, now February is wrapping up warmer and drier than normal, which is worrisome for farmers. “They’re concerned. They know they can’t do a whole lot about it. If anything, farmers are always hopeful about moisture,” Rieck-Hinz says. “There might be some ways we can manage that going into spring. We can think about if we can actually go in and plant without having to do any tillage that would dry out soils even more.” Forecasters say there’s a chance for a mix of rain and snow next week, but it likely won’t be significant enough to make a dent in the drought.

“We should probably think about if we have cover crops out there, if we want to terminate them a little bit earlier than usual,” she says, “so we’re not pulling as much moisture out of the soil. That’s something to think about.” March 19th is the first day of spring.

(Massena, Iowa) – The Cass County Conservation Board (CCCB) is hosting an “Intro to Turkey Hunting” program, Saturday March 16, 2024, at 10-a.m., at the Outdoor Classroom shelter, located at 76977 Tucson Rd, Massena, IA.

The program will focus on “Becoming a Turkey Hunter.” CCCB employees will talk about scouting, calling, and equipment needed as well as different techniques and equipment used by successful turkey hunters. Officials say the program will be great for someone who wants to start turkey hunting or those with more experience. The CCCB will have examples of calls, decoys, blinds, and other tools used in the turkey woods. So, if you want to hit the Turkey woods this spring but don’t know where to start or would just like to pick up another technique or tip, come to the Outdoor Classroom on March 16, 2024, at 10:00am to learn a few things and get started on your turkey hunting adventure.

For questions call CCCB Director Micah Lee at 712-769-2372.

(Atlantic, Iowa) – The Cass County Conservation Board is holding Shed Antler Hike. The hike will be held at the Pellett Memorial Woods, north of Atlantic, on March 9^th at 1 pm. The event is FREE, all ages are welcome. Dress for the weather.

CCCB invites you to “Cure the winter blues by spending some time outside with family friendly FUN! We will talk about all things antlers! Bring your keen eyes for this scavenger hunt!!”

Participants will meet at Pellett Memorial Woods- located just outside of Atlantic, ½ mile north and ¾ mile east of the KJAN radio station (63066 Troublesome Creek Rd).

“We hope you will join us.”