I think one big factor in all the recent discussion about Indiana dirt track preparation that has been overlooked for the most part is this: Daylight Savings Time.
When I was growing up and going to the races, more often than not (depending on what track it was) a real dust-fest was the exception to the rule. Obviously things are different now. That extra hour of summer sun and wind really takes a toll on the track. And no one is starting an hour later to compensate for it, either. It wouldn't be from me, but I can hear the ******** now of they decided to do that...
Also, another factor is that nearly everybody screams the motor now. Back in the day, you could look at the tach in the pits when the car pulled in and see a number in the high 7000s. Now they turn them into the 9000s! That wheelspin with the wide tires is a factor in losing moisture as well.