Heat and Wildfire Smoke Raise Concerns for Minnesota Crops

Minnesota farmers are closely monitoring their crops following a stretch of extreme heat and heavy wildfire smoke.

Agricultural weather specialists say temperatures approached 100 degrees Friday in parts of the Upper Midwest, while thick smoke blanketed Minnesota and surrounding states.

The conditions could increase stress on corn, soybeans and spring-planted small grains. Fields that have received limited rainfall face the greatest concern as soil moisture declines.

Specialists say conditions remain favorable in many areas, and no widespread crop damage has been reported. Farmers will continue watching rainfall and crop development in the days ahead.