Mixed results in USDA crop condition report

By Scout Nelson

For the week ending August 25, 2024, U.S. farmers had 5.9 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. The report showed topsoil moisture levels with 60% rated as adequate, but also highlighted areas of concern with 6% very short and 31% short. Subsoil moisture mirrored these findings, with 67% adequate but 30% falling into the short or very short categories.

The crop condition report provided a detailed look at key field crops:

Corn conditions were mostly positive, with 60% rated good and 13% excellent. Corn dough was at 84%, slightly ahead of both last year and the five-year average. However, the dented stage lagged, with only 22% dented compared to 33% last year.

Soybean conditions mirrored corn, with 60% rated good and 12% excellent. Soybean pod setting was at 87%, close to both last year's progress and the average, but the dropping leaves stage was notably behind.

Spring wheat harvesting was nearly complete, with 83% harvested, aligning with the average.

Oats harvesting was ahead, with 96% of the crop harvested, surpassing both last year and the average.

Sorghum showed some areas of concern, particularly in coloring, which was significantly behind both last years and the average progress.

The report also covered sunflowers, which showed strong blooming rates at 95%, and pasture and range conditions, where 37% were rated good and 9% excellent, though some areas struggled with poorer conditions.

This weekly USDA report provides valuable insights into the ongoing challenges and successes within the U.S. agricultural landscape as the growing season progresses.

Photo Credit:gettyimages-dszc