Weekly update on field conditions and crops

By Scout Nelson

According to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the week ending October 6, 2024, recorded 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork. The topsoil moisture supplies were rated as follows: 11% very short, 31% short, 54% adequate, and 4% surplus. In terms of subsoil moisture, 10% was rated very short, 26% short, 58% adequate, and 6% surplus.

In the Field Crops Report, the condition of soybeans showed 2% rated very poor, 5% poor, 26% fair, 58% good, and 9% excellent. Currently, 95% of soybeans are dropping leaves, which is on par with both last year's figures and the five-year average. The harvesting of soybeans stands at 52%, significantly ahead of last year’s 36% and the 42% average.

For winter wheat, the condition rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 29% fair, 63% good, and 4% excellent. Winter wheat planting is at 79%, matching both last year and the average, with 60% emerging—slightly ahead of last year's 57% and the 50% average.

Corn conditions rated 2% very poor, 7% poor, 25% fair, 58% good, and 8% excellent. Corn dented is at 95%, behind last year's 100%, while 65% is mature lagging behind last year’s 84% and the average of 70%. The harvested corn is currently at 8%, nearing last year's 12%.

Other crops reported include canola at 90% harvested, sugarbeets at 21%, and sunflower conditions showing 2% very poor and 61% good. Flaxseed is harvested at 97%, and potatoes are 78% harvested.

Pasture and range conditions showed 10% very poor, 20% poor, 28% fair, 40% good, and 2% excellent. Stock water supplies rated 9% very short, 21% short, 67% adequate, and 3% surplus. This comprehensive report provides valuable insights into the current agricultural landscape.

Photo Credit:gettyimages-eugenesergeev