Weekly crop progress and condition report

By Scout Nelson

The United States Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service provided an update for the week ending November 10, 2024, indicating 5.6 days were suitable for fieldwork. 

Moisture conditions showed some concerns with topsoil moisture rated at 32% very short, 45% short, and 23% adequate, with no areas reporting surplus. Subsoil moisture followed a similar pattern with 29% very short, 43% short, and 28% adequate.

In the field crops report, corn harvests displayed impressive progress at 94% complete, significantly exceeding the 84% completion from the previous year and the five-year average of 79%. This advancement highlights efficient harvesting practices and possibly favorable earlier season conditions. 

Winter wheat showed a mix of conditions, with the crop rated 3% very poor, 26% poor, 43% fair, 24% good, and 4% excellent. However, winter wheat emergence is lagging at 75%, which is behind the previous year’s 92% and the average of 90%, indicating potential issues in germination or early growth stages.

Sorghum harvests paralleled the positive trend seen in corn, with a completion of 94%, outpacing last year’s 85% and the average of 86%. Sunflowers also saw a robust harvest at 83% complete, well above the 66% from last year and the 71% average, suggesting good harvesting conditions for these crops as well.

Pasture and range conditions were less favorable, rated 25% very poor, 27% poor, 30% fair, and 18% good, with no areas rated excellent. This indicates ongoing challenges in pasture health, likely influenced by the insufficient moisture levels reported.

Overall, the agricultural landscape for this period shows a successful harvesting season for major crops but underlines the need for monitoring and possibly augmenting moisture levels to support optimal pasture health and prepare for the upcoming agricultural activities.

The report underscores the resilience of the sector amid varying climatic conditions, ensuring sustainability in food production and supply.

Photo Credits:gettyimages-eugenesergeev