By Scout Nelson
The condition of the US spring wheat crop continues to excel, as evidenced by the latest USDA crop progress report.
As of this past Sunday, 77% of the national spring wheat crop was rated as good to excellent—an increase of 2 points from the previous week and a substantial 26 points higher than the same period last year.
North Dakota, the leading state in spring wheat production, saw its crop condition improve slightly by 1 point to 82% good to excellent.
Montana experienced a remarkable 8-point jump to 73%, indicating significant progress. However, not all news was positive, as Minnesota witnessed a 7-point decline to 81% good to excellent, and South Dakota's rating fell by 9 points to 66%.
Additionally, 76% of the US spring wheat crop has reached the heading stage, which is a crucial phase in crop development. This marks an increase from 59% a week earlier, although it still trails behind last year and the five-year average, which stand at 82% and 78%, respectively.
In state-specific developments, Minnesota’s crop is 5 points ahead of the state average at 93% headed.
Montana is also performing well, with 72% of its crop headed, 4 points ahead of the average. Conversely, North Dakota is trailing with 70% of its crops headed, 5 points behind the state average, while South Dakota is ahead at 93%.
This varied progress across major wheat-producing states reflects the dynamic nature of agricultural cultivation, influenced by regional climatic conditions and other factors.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Wheat, Government & Policy