By Scout Nelson
As of April 20, 2025, fieldwork in North Dakota is gradually gaining momentum, with producers expected to start fully by April 24. According to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, there were 3.9 days suitable for fieldwork last week.
Topsoil moisture was reported as 13% very short, 32% short, 52% adequate, and 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture remained similarly distributed with 19% very short, 33% short, 46% adequate, and 2% surplus.
Spring wheat planting reached 10%, ahead of the five-year average of 5%. One percent has emerged. Durum wheat planting stands at 5%, aligning with previous years. Winter wheat conditions remain mostly fair to good, with 38% rated good and only 1% excellent. Just 1% of winter wheat has joined.
Other planting updates include 2% canola, 3% sugar beets, and 9% oats, with 1% emerging. Barley planting is at 5%, while dry edible peas reached 7%. Potato planting stands at 1%, slightly behind historical averages.
Cattle and calf conditions are stable with 73% rated good to excellent. Calving is 63% complete, matching last year and the average. Death loss was mainly average or light. Sheep and lamb conditions are also favorable, with 76% in good to excellent condition. Lambing progress is 81% complete, and shearing lags slightly at 79%.
Hay and roughage supplies remain adequate at 74%, while stock water supplies are slightly stressed, with 11% very short and 24% short.
This report highlights the early-season outlook across the state, providing insight into planting progress, crop condition, and livestock updates as North Dakota farmers and ranchers head deeper into spring.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Sugar Beets, Hay & Forage, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Weather