By Scout Nelson
The USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service has recently updated the agricultural status for South Dakota as of the week ending April 21, 2024. The report indicates that farmers had 3.4 days suitable for fieldwork, which facilitated notable progress in crop planting and maintenance.
Regarding soil moisture, topsoil conditions were mostly favorable with only 1% very short, 18% short, 76% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture also showed a healthy balance with 3% very short, 25% short, 69% adequate, and 3% surplus.
In the field crops report, corn planting was at 3%, which aligns closely with the five-year average of 1%. Winter wheat showed excellent health with 61% rated good and 2% excellent, while only a small fraction was in poor condition.
Spring wheat planting surged to 40%, far exceeding last year's 3% and the average of 21%. The emergence of spring wheat stood at 6%, slightly above the average rate. Oats also saw a significant boost in planting at 45%, vastly outpacing last year's 10% and the average of 23%, with 13% already emerged.
Sorghum planting was recorded at 3%, marking a steady start for the crop.
This report highlights the positive momentum in South Dakota's agriculture, reflecting a promising start to the growing season thanks to favorable weather and effective farm management.
Photo Credit -gettyimages-livingimages
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Corn, Wheat, Sorghum