By Scout Nelson
The United States Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service has issued its weekly report for the period ending November 3, 2024, providing vital data on fieldwork conditions and crop progress across the country. Farmers had 6.2 days suitable for fieldwork last week, facilitating significant advances in crop harvesting.
Moisture levels, critical for crop health and yield, varied considerably. Topsoil moisture was predominantly low, with 42% reported as very short and 39% short. Only 19% of topsoil had adequate moisture levels, with none classified as surplus. Similarly, subsoil moisture supplies were constrained, with 35% very short and 39% short, though 26% reached adequate levels.
In terms of crop progress, the corn harvest showed notable gains, reaching 89% completion. This is substantially ahead of the 71% recorded last year and the five-year average of 70%. Winter wheat saw varied conditions with 31% rated good and 4% excellent, although emergence lagged at 70%, trailing behind the usual 86% average.
Sorghum harvests were robust at 90% completion, surpassing both last year's and the average pace. Sunflowers also showed positive outcomes, with 65% harvested, which is significantly higher than the previous year’s 47% and the average of 53%. The condition of the sunflowers was largely favorable, with 52% rated good and 5% excellent.
Pasture and range conditions presented a challenging picture, with 28% very poor, 28% poor, and 28% fair. Only 16% of pastures were rated as good, with none in excellent condition, reflecting broader environmental stresses.
This comprehensive snapshot underscores the variable conditions facing U.S. agriculture, highlighting both the achievements and ongoing challenges in the sector as it navigates climatic and market fluctuations.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Wheat, Sorghum, Weather