By Scout Nelson
For the week ending November 17, 2024, the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service reported 3.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Despite some challenges, field activities continued, focusing on winter wheat, sorghum, cotton, and sunflower harvests.
Topsoil and Subsoil Moisture Conditions:
Topsoil moisture levels were rated at 6% very short, 21% short, 57% adequate, and 16% surplus, showing overall favorable conditions with occasional shortages. Subsoil moisture levels were rated 9% very short, 33% short, 52% adequate, and 6% surplus, reflecting mixed moisture levels across the region.
Field Crop Conditions and Harvest Progress:
Winter wheat crop conditions rated 3% very poor, 9% poor, 39% fair, 40% good, and 9% excellent. The winter wheat emergence rate reached 91%, slightly ahead of last year's 90% and above the five-year average of 86%.
Harvest progress continued across other key crops. Sorghum harvesting was reported at 93%, close to last year’s 94% and above the five-year average of 91%. Cotton harvest progress reached 67%, slightly below last year’s 71% but ahead of the 56% five-year average. Sunflower harvest progress was at 92%, close to last year’s 89% and just above the five-year average of 91%.
Pasture and Range Conditions:
Pasture and range conditions were rated 10% very poor, 23% poor, 43% fair, 22% good, and 2% excellent. These ratings indicate a mix of conditions for pastures, with some areas seeing adequate growth and others facing limitations.
This report showcases the steady progress in fieldwork and harvest activities despite varied moisture levels, reflecting the resilience of the region’s agricultural community in managing diverse growing conditions.
Photo Credits:usda
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat, Sorghum, Weather