Nebraska Crop Progress Shows Mixed Conditions

By Scout Nelson

Nebraska farmers continue making progress in the 2026 growing season as mostly dry weather creates favorable fieldwork conditions but reduces soil moisture across the state. The latest USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service report shows 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Aug. 9.

Soil moisture remains a major concern. Topsoil moisture is rated 31% very short, 33% short, 35% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture is rated 34% very short, 32% short, 33% adequate, and 1% surplus. These conditions are increasing pressure on crops, pastures, and rangeland.

Corn development remains close to normal. About 93% of the crop has reached the silking stage, while 55% is in the dough stage and 13% has reached the dented stage. Corn condition is rated 43% good and 14% excellent, while 29% is fair and 14% is poor or very poor.

Soybean development is also progressing. About 92% of soybeans are blooming and 75% are setting pods. The crop is rated 50% good and 12% excellent, with 27% fair and 11% poor or very poor.

Sorghum development is slower than both last year and the five-year average. About 53% of the crop is headed and 7% is coloring. Overall condition is rated 41% good, 38% fair, and 16% poor or very poor.

Winter wheat harvest is nearly complete at 97%, ahead of both last year and the five-year average. Oat harvest has reached 89%, although oat condition remains under pressure, with 55% rated poor or very poor.

Pasture and range conditions are the greatest concern. About 70% is rated poor or very poor, including 44% very poor and 26% poor.

Photo Credit: minnesota-corn-growers-association