Running out of soak time: Drought holds as ground prepares to freeze

Drought conditions continue to hold steady in Minnesota as temperatures drop and the state moves closer to frozen-ground season. Any moisture that falls in the coming weeks will be key for soil recharge before the freeze sets in.

Drought remains unchanged

The latest weekly update from the National Drought Mitigation Center shows that drought classifications remain largely unchanged across Minnesota.

In the north-central region, counties including Cass, Itasca, Wadena, Hubbard, and Aitkin remain in moderate drought. Meanwhile, Carlton and Pine counties continue to experience severe drought conditions.

With the ground not yet fully frozen, the window for any meaningful recharge is closing.

Soil temperatures above-freezing, for now

Fortunately, soil temperatures remain slightly warm, giving us some time before the ground fully freezes. Below are the seven-day average soil temperatures at 2-inch and 4-inch depths, which remain above freezing for now.

Prepare plant life for fall and winter

As the seasons shift, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds us to give our trees and shrubs some extra care:

“Trees face extra stress as the seasons change, from hungry wildlife to harsh winter winds, especially in an urban environment,” said Mark Kruse, DNR urban and community forestry project specialist. “A little care now can go a long way toward protecting your trees and ensuring they thrive next spring.”

It’s important to give trees and shrubs plenty of moisture before the ground freezes. Moist soil retains more warmth than dry soil, which can help protect roots from freeze damage.