Corn and wheat harvest progress reported

By Scout Nelson

For the week ending November 17, 2024, the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service recorded 5.7 days suitable for fieldwork. Field activities continued with corn and sorghum harvests nearing completion, despite varying soil moisture levels across the region.

Topsoil and Subsoil Moisture Conditions:

Topsoil moisture was rated at 21% very short, 41% short, 37% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture levels showed similar variability, with 27% rated very short, 46% short, and 27% adequate, reflecting a continuing lack of surplus moisture in most areas.

Field Crop Conditions and Harvest Progress:

The corn harvest was reported as 97% complete, close to 94% from last year and above the five-year average of 93%. Winter wheat conditions showed mixed ratings: 7% very poor, 20% poor, 39% fair, 28% good, and 6% excellent. Winter wheat emergence was at 91%, trailing behind last year’s 100% and the five-year average of 99%. Sorghum harvest reached 90% completion, also near last year’s 94% and a five-year average of 92%.

Pasture and Range Conditions:

Pasture and range conditions were challenging, with ratings of 33% very poor, 26% poor, 26% fair, 14% good, and 1% excellent. These conditions reflect the impact of limited soil moisture, affecting pasture quality across the region.

This report highlights the steady progress in crop harvests despite moisture variability, with a focus on managing soil conditions to support future growth and resilience in the agricultural landscape.

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