By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin experienced 3.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 13, 2025, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service.
While northern Wisconsin still faced lingering frost and overly wet topsoil hindering progress, central and southern regions saw the commencement of spring tillage and early planting activities. Farmers were actively applying manure and fertilizer as field conditions permitted.
Statewide topsoil moisture was rated as 2% very short, 15% short, 65% adequate, and 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture conditions were assessed as 3% very short, 20% short, 59% adequate, and 18% surplus.
Oat planting was 7% complete, lagging behind last year by 2 days and the 5-year average by 3 days. Potato planting had just begun in some areas, reaching 2% completion. Spring tillage was 8% complete, trailing last year by 3 days and the average by 2 days.
Pasture and range conditions were rated as 12% very poor, 24% poor, 40% fair, 22% good, and 2% excellent.
Winter wheat conditions were reported as 1% very poor, 7% poor, 46% fair, 42% good, and 4% excellent. The varying conditions across the state highlight the regional differences in the progression of spring fieldwork.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-frankoppermann
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Government & Policy