When it comes to finding silver linings in dark clouds, John Obermeyer may be the champ.

        In Indiana, at least.

Access to the floating restaurants at Covington Landing is a little trickier as the Ohio River level rises because of the inclement weather. (Michael Snyder photo) | ZOOM |

        The Purdue University entomologist said Friday that while record rainfall in the Hoosier State has kept many farmers out of their boggy fields, it might help squelch the usual crop of worms that feed on crops such as corn.

        With no seeds planted, the worms hatch and die.

        A statewide average of more than 15.6 inches has fallen in Indiana since March 1 — the most for that period in 107 years — with southwestern and western areas hit worst.

        The soaking is “sending the insects out of whack. With the dry spell predicted next week, this could be a good thing for farmers,” Mr. Obermeyer said.

        National Weather Service officials say Cincinnati has received 20.89 inches this year, almost 5 inches above normal but not a record. Still, it's more than 2 1/2 times the amount that fell by this time last year, according to weather service forecaster Steve Hredenacit.

        The Ohio River crested just above 42 feet on Friday, 10 feet below flood stage. The Great Miami, Licking, Little Miami and Whitewater rivers were all well below flood stage Friday.

        The population of insect pests isn't booming yet, naturalists say, but they urge people to take precautions.

        “Right now (the rain) is not helping mosquitoes because the water is too cold,” said Carol Mundy, a naturalist for the Hamilton County Park District. “People should take action to eliminate standing water such as in pots, tires and gutters, because when it gets warm mosquitoes will start laying eggs.”

        She said the tick population is about normal. Ticks hang on plants until a warmblooded host comes by.

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