Rainfall holds key to Wis. agricultural outlook - WQOW TV: Eau Claire, WI NEWS18 News, Weather, and Sports

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Agriculture experts say the biggest wildcard in predicting Wisconsin's crop production this year is moisture.

Last year's drought was severe enough that most fruit and vegetable crops were hit hard. The crops that fared well were largely those that could tap into water reserves deep in the soil.

This year those water reserves are partially depleted, and it would take about 12 inches of rain statewide to replenish them. Less rain could also be adequate, but even so crop experts say they're straining to find reasons for optimism.

Rainfall was below average in November, and December through February are traditionally Wisconsin's three least rainy months.

Experts at an agricultural forum in Madison said Wednesday the crops at greatest risk from another prolonged drought are corn and soybeans.