By Scout Nelson
As of the week ending April 6, 2025, South Dakota experienced 2.7 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Dry conditions continue to impact farmland, with topsoil moisture supplies rated 32 percent very short, 38 percent short, 27 percent adequate, and just 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies showed even more stress, rated 40 percent very short, 43 percent short, 17 percent adequate, and no surplus.
The early stages of crop planting have begun, and some fields are already showing signs of growth. Spring wheat planting has reached 9 percent, up from 4 percent at this time last year and ahead of the five-year average of 6 percent. Oats planting is also progressing well, with 15 percent planted, close to 16 percent last year, and ahead of the five-year average of 8 percent.
Winter wheat, however, continues to show stress due to dry soil conditions. The current condition of winter wheat is rated 10 percent very poor, 28 percent poor, 44 percent fair, and 18 percent good. No crops were reported in excellent condition.
These figures reflect the ongoing challenges in maintaining healthy winter crops while advancing spring planting in a timely manner. Early planting signals a good start for spring wheat and oats but concerns about moisture may continue to affect crop development.
As weather patterns shift and the season progresses, producers are hoping for improved precipitation to support better soil health. Continued monitoring of conditions will be essential to ensure strong crop outcomes throughout South Dakota's growing season. The early field activity, combined with hopes for rain, marks the beginning of a potentially strong but weather-dependent planting year.
Photo Credits:gettyimages-dleonis
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Wheat, Weather