Kentucky Drought Impact Reporter
As I stated above, the state is starting to run a bit dry, which is something that we definitely don’t want to see going into the summer months. I work with folks across the state determining the spatial scale and intensity of drought/abnormally dry conditions throughout Kentucky. This is ultimately put together in the form of a map called the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Luckily, Kentucky is in the clear as of now, but looking at current conditions, this could very well change soon. Something that can help us get a better handle on current conditions across the state is by using the Kentucky Drought and Hydrologic Impact Reporter. This tool was originally developed by the Kentucky Division of Water and the Kentucky Climate Center to help identify how dry or wet it may be in different areas of the state. Ultimately, it gives us an idea of the impacts you are seeing. Perhaps streams or farm ponds are running dry, hay yields are low, row crops are starting to show some stress, or maybe your lawn is just starting to turn brown. If you have conditions to share, I'd like to encourage you to submit pictures. The form can be easily accessed on mobile devices and takes very little time to fill out.
Looking at the agriculture sector, this information can help the decision-making process when shaping the U.S. Drought Monitor, which plays a significant role in the issuance of state drought declarations and the Livestock Forage Disaster Program.
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