Crop Progress - State Stories
ISSN: 2470-9816
Released January 5, 2021, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service
(NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA).
ALABAMA: December temperatures were generally on par with historic
averages. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 2.0 inches to 8.3 inches.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 8 percent of the State was
experiencing abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 12 percent
at the beginning of the month. As a whole, agricultural activities were
normal for the time of year, with no extraordinary events or pest pressure to
report. Producers finished harvesting row crops and planting winter wheat in
a timely manner. Winter wheat was progressing well, and its condition was
fair to excellent, depending on location. Cover crop planting progressed on
schedule, and the crop was off to a good start. Cattle remained in mostly
good condition. Pasture grasses and winter grazing looked good, albeit
progressing slowly. Producers supplemented winter grazing with hay and feed.
Hay stocks were adequate. In addition to normal field activities for this
time of year, some producers continued to work on repairing or rebuilding
structures that were damaged by hurricanes Sally and Zeta.
ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
ARIZONA: This report for Arizona is for the entire month of December
2020. By the end of the month, cotton harvest was 97 percent complete
compared to 75 percent on the last report and 95 percent for the previous
year, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National
Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Thirty-nine percent of barley has been
planted and 30 percent has emerged. Twenty-four percent of Durum wheat has
been planted and 20 percent has emerged. Alfalfa conditions were rated mostly
excellent to good, depending on location last week with harvesting taking
place on more than three-quarters of the alfalfa acreage across the State.
For the entire State, pasture and range conditions were rated mostly very
poor to poor. Severe to exceptional dryness in the entire State continues to
affect pasture and range conditions, forage growth, soil moisture, stream
water, and stock tanks. Ranchers have continued to reduce their herds or ship
livestock out of state.
ARKANSAS: For the week ending January 3, 2021, days suitable for
fieldwork 2.0 days. Topsoil moisture 2% short, 31% adequate, 67% surplus.
Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 3% short, 40% adequate, 55% surplus. The
month of December was wetter than normal with temperatures slightly above
average. Producers were battling with wet and muddy conditions as hay feeding
continued. Winter wheat and cover crops have mostly fared well but some areas
were reported flooded. The State average rainfall was 4.73 inches for the
month of December with an average temperature of about 43 degrees. Overall,
rainfall has been plentiful for this time of year in the State, but average
temperatures are slightly above normal.
CALIFORNIA: Topsoil moisture 20% very short, 50% short, 30% adequate.
Subsoil moisture 60% very short, 20% short, 20% adequate. Temperatures for
the month averaged 48.9 degrees, 1.8 degrees above normal. Statewide average
precipitation was 1.25 inches. Cropland was being prepared for upcoming
plantings. A weather system is expected this week, which will bring much
needed rainfall. The winter wheat crop has emerged. Flooded rice fields were
observed. Citrus growers irrigated their groves during December using wells
due to the lack of rain. Cool temperatures have been good for grape sugar
(brix) content with no major freeze events as of yet. Fungicides were applied
through sprinklers to winter carrots. The winter shake continued on almonds
and pistachios. Growers also applied pre-emergent herbicides to their
orchards.
COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the entire month of December
2020. Topsoil moisture 33% very short, 44% short, 23% adequate. Subsoil
moisture 35% very short, 48% short, 17% adequate. Winter wheat condition 15%
very poor, 19% poor, 47% fair, 18% good, 1% excellent. Livestock condition 1%
very poor, 6% poor, 33% fair, 49% good, 11% excellent. Pasture and range
condition 29% very poor, 36% poor, 29% fair, 6% good. Moderately dry weather
across the State during the month of December was interspersed with a few
productive snow storms, according to the Mountain Region Field Office of the
National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Overall, the entire State
remained in moderate to exceptional drought, according to the latest U.S.
Drought Monitor report. In eastern counties, some areas benefitted from good
snowfall while others remained mostly dry. Temperatures were generally above
normal. Reporters noted winter wheat and pasture conditions remained stressed
from continued lack of consistent precipitation, but the snowfall was
welcome. More precipitation is needed to improve pasture and crop conditions
prior to spring. Feed supplies were short as producers continued feeding
livestock. In the San Luis Valley, soil moisture supplies remained short and
little precipitation was received. Pasture and rangeland in the area remained
very short and livestock producers were actively seeking any alternate winter
grazing arrangements. As of January 1, 2021, snowpack was 83 percent measured
as percent of median snowfall.
DELAWARE: The State experienced excessive precipitation periods averaging
from 6-7 inches of rain in most weeks, preventing some farmers from corn and
soybean harvesting and cover crop planting. Some low areas were flooded,
making the fields untillable in preparation for the upcoming crop-planting
year. Overall, December saw poor drying condition days combined with cloudy,
freezing, and poor sunshine days.
FLORIDA: Total rainfall for the month ranged from no rain in a few
locations to 4.8 inches in Escambia County. According to the December 29,
2020 U.S. Drought Monitor, 10.7 percent of the State was experiencing
abnormally dry conditions at month's end, compared with 0.8 percent at the
beginning of the month. Average mean temperatures ranged from 48.2�F in
Jasper County to 70.5�F in Monroe County. Pasture conditions remained mostly
fair to good, throughout the month but experienced seasonal declines. At the
beginning of the month, frosts caused damage to several pastures in the
Panhandle and parts of the northern peninsula. Cattle conditions remained
mostly good to excellent throughout the month. Cotton harvesting finished
much later than normal, wrapping up by the final week of December. As cotton
harvest finished up, cover crops were planted. Vegetable producers prepared
their land for spring planting towards the end of the month. Sugarcane was
planted and harvested in the southern part of the peninsula. Citrus
activities were normal and included mowing, spraying, fertilizing, and
general grove maintenance. Grapefruit, early and midseason oranges, and
tangerines were harvested and processed.
GEORGIA: Total rainfall for the month ranged from no rain in a few
locations to 5.3 inches in White County. According to the U.S. Drought
Monitor, December began with 37.5% percent of the State abnormally dry and by
the end of the month, 34.2% was abnormally dry. Cold temperatures started
early in the month and continued throughout the month. Ample rainfall in the
last week of the month significantly affected planting and harvesting
activates with some locations receiving 6 inches of rain. Freezing
temperatures and heavy rains caused pasture conditions to be less than ideal
and sloppy. Winter grazing and small grains were slow to grow due to the cold
temperatures but benefitted from the rain. Hay consumptions for the month was
mostly normal but availability was somewhat low in parts of north Georgia.
Most of the cotton in the middle and southern part of the State was picked at
the conclusion of the month. Pecan harvest moved closer to completion.
HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
IDAHO: The Statewide temperatures in Idaho for the month of December were
normal to above average throughout the State. Some storm activity picked up
in the latter part of December. Some of that moisture fell as rain in
northern Idaho, where winter had gotten off to a mild start. Higher
elevations in northern Idaho reported good snow cover. Winter wheat was in
good shape in Lewis County, although snow cover was needed before freezing
temperatures arrived. It was still early for early calving in Idaho County.
In the lower elevations of Boundary County, snow melted in portions of the
valley, and green grass was visible. In southwest Idaho, early winter weather
was seasonably cold with limited precipitation to date. Calving was just
getting underway. Hay stocks of all classes were in good supply. Minimal snow
and precipitation was reported in Elmore County. South central Idaho was dry
and observed above average temperatures. There was not much winter stress on
livestock or crops. In Camas County, there was little farming activity. A few
feet of snow settled on the valley floor. The county hoped for more snow.
Southeastern Idaho reported spotty snow and drier than normal conditions in
most places. Cold temperatures were reported in Madison County. Most of the
fields were snow covered. In Fremont County, most operations fed livestock
and prepared for calving season. In Teton County, dry high-pressure weather
patterns dominated the weather early in the month. Some bare pasture was
observed. This was followed by snow later in the month. Grass-fed livestock
producers were feeding hay for roughly a month.
ILLINOIS: For the week ending on January 3, 2021. Topsoil moisture 3%
very short, 9% short, 71% adequate, 17% surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% very
short, 17% short, 65% adequate, 13% surplus. Statewide, the average
temperature in December was 32.6 degrees, 2.8 degrees above normal.
Precipitation averaged 1.75 inches, 0.94 inches below normal.
INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of December was 2% very short,
12% short, 65% adequate, and 21% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was
5% very short, 17% short, 64% adequate, and 14% surplus. Winter wheat
condition was rated 1% very poor, 4% poor, 29% fair, 56% good, and 10%
excellent. Statewide temperatures averaged 33.4 degrees, 2.3 degrees above
normal for the month of December. Statewide average precipitation was
1.87 inches, 1.19 inches below normal. December was off to a cold start, but
quickly warmed up with temperatures remaining above normal for much of the
month. Precipitation levels were well below normal for the month of December,
but some rain and snow events towards the end of the month helped replenish
soil moisture. The late-month rainfall caused muddy conditions in some
pastures and standing water in some fields, particularly in the southern part
of the State. Winter wheat conditions improved slightly from the previous
month. Livestock were reported to be doing well. Other activities for the
month included equipment maintenance, construction projects, and online
education.
IOWA: December brought unseasonably warm temperatures across the State
for most of the month. Measurable snowfall was recorded the last week of the
month which shut down most fieldwork. Fieldwork activities early in the month
included finishing fall tillage, applying nitrogen and manure, and cleaning
up from the derecho. Unlike the previous year, there were no reports of crops
remaining to be harvested. Grain movement was brisk due to strong prices.
Livestock continued to graze on corn stalks. The warm temperatures were
beneficial for livestock with no major issues reported. Soil moisture levels
are a widespread concern as farmers look forward to the 2021 crop year.
KANSAS: For the week ending January 3, 2021, topsoil moisture supplies
rated 14% very short, 29% short, 49% adequate, 8% surplus. Subsoil moisture
supplies rated 11% very short, 34% short, 52% adequate, 3% surplus. Winter
wheat condition rated 5% very poor, 12% poor, 37% fair, 40% good, 6%
excellent. Cotton harvested 84%.
KENTUCKY: For the month of December, Kentucky saw near normal
temperatures and below normal precipitation. Throughout the month
temperatures fluctuated and continued a below normal precipitation trend that
started in November. Temperatures for the period averaged 38 degrees across
the State, which was near normal. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period
totaled 3.13 inches Statewide, which was 1.29 inches below normal and 71% of
normal. The second half of the month did see an increase in precipitation,
but this increase was accompanied by cold temperatures stunting pasture
growth. For the month of December, hay supplies 1% very short, 7% short, 83%
adequate, 9% surplus. Despite some harsh weather, the condition of livestock
was mostly good. Livestock conditions 1% very poor, 3% poor, 22% fair, 61%
good, 13% excellent. Condition of winter wheat 1% poor, 14% fair, 66% good,
19% excellent. Tobacco stripping 83% complete.
LOUISIANA: For the week ending January 3, 2021, days suitable for
fieldwork 2.2 days. Topsoil moisture 1% short, 53% adequate, and 46% surplus.
Subsoil moisture 1% short, 60% adequate, and 39% surplus. Conditions for the
State were wet and cool during December. Sugarcane harvest continued through
the month with most producers nearly completed. Ryegrass progress was slow in
many areas. Vegetable crops were producing well. Average rainfall for the
State was about 1.14 inches with an average temperature of about 50 degrees.
Overall, rainfall was average but temperatures for the State have been higher
than normal for this time of year.
MARYLAND: During the month of December, the State experienced excessive
precipitation periods in some areas. This prevented some farmers from
harvesting corn and cover crop planting, but helped restore ponds and
recharge streams. Overall, temperatures were in the normal range, with the
occasional 10 degrees F above a normal high. No real sustained below average
temperatures have occurred.
MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 0% very short, 3% short, 91% adequate and 6%
surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 6% short, 87% adequate, and 6%
surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 5% poor, 21% fair, 60%
good, and 13% excellent. Precipitation for the month of December averaged
2.25 inches throughout the State, 0.47 inches below normal. Temperature for
the month of December averaged 28.8 degrees, 4.0 degrees above normal. The
winter so far has been unusually mild across the State, but there has been
sufficient precipitation to improve soil moisture content. Growers have found
it fairly easy to take care of livestock, haul manure as needed, move hay and
haul grain. Counties along the Lake Michigan shoreline have had adequate snow
cover, but the ground has not been frozen, allowing fruit growers to prune
older orchards. Weather conditions have been good for winter wheat in central
counties and the Thumb region, but in southern counties, snow cover is very
light. Other activities for the month included tiling work, purchasing seed,
getting equipment ready for spring, and cutting firewood for next winter.
MINNESOTA: December began with unseasonably warm weather. Unlike the
previous year, there were only scattered reports of small acreages of corn
still standing. Field activities included maintenance, tiling, and manure
hauling. Pasture conditions were reported mostly favorable until blizzard
conditions late in the month blanketed fields with snow. Some cows were
reported still on stalk fields. Feed supplies were adequate throughout the
State. A winter storm December 23-24 brought widespread snowfall of four to
six inches. During this event, temperatures fell between 40 to 50 degrees
Fahrenheit and localized snowfall totals were 9.5 inches at Two Harbors and
8.7 inches in the Twin Cities. Most of December's precipitation came from
this winter storm. The month ended with reports of colder temperatures and
standing snow in the fields and pastures.
MISSISSIPPI: For the week ending January 3, 2021, topsoil moisture
supplies were 1% short, 60% adequate, and 39% surplus. Subsoil moisture
supplies were 1% short, 73% adequate, and 26% surplus. Conditions for the
month of December have been cool and wet. Most crops made it out of fields by
early December, but current weather conditions have limited growth of winter
forages. The State average rainfall was about 3.8 inches for the month of
December with an average temperature of about 45 degrees. Overall, rainfall
and average temperatures have been typical for this time of year in the
State.
MISSOURI: For the week ending January 3, 2021. Topsoil moisture 5% short,
85% adequate, 10% surplus. Subsoil moisture 16% short, 82% adequate, 2%
surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% poor, 45% fair, 45% good, 8% excellent.
Statewide, precipitation averaged 1.50 inches for the month of December,
1.27 inches below average. Temperatures averaged 35.7 degrees, 2.6 degrees
above normal.
MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the entire month of December
2020. Topsoil moisture 15% very short, 46% short, 39% adequate. Subsoil
moisture 13% very short, 42% short, 45% adequate. Winter wheat - condition 1%
very poor, 4% poor, 30% fair, 58% good, 7% excellent. Winter wheat - wind
damage 72% none, 14% light, 8% moderate, 6% heavy. Winter wheat - freeze and
drought damage 83% none, 13% light, 3% moderate, 1% heavy. Winter wheat -
protectiveness of snow cover 44% very poor, 56% poor. Pasture and range -
condition 14% very poor, 28% poor, 50% fair, 8% good. Livestock grazing
accessibility - 94% open, 6% difficult. Livestock receiving supplemental feed
- cattle and calves 86% fed. Livestock receiving supplemental feed - sheep
and lambs 85% fed. The month of December was exceptionally warm and dry for
Montana, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National
Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Reporters across the State noted a
lack of precipitation and high winds throughout the month of December.
Temperatures across the State were higher than the daily historical averages
for a majority of the month. High temperatures ranged from the high 20s to
the mid-60s. Low temperatures ranged from the mid-40s to the teens. According
to the U.S. Drought Monitor, approximately 63 percent of Montana is in a
current state of drought, with about 8 percent of the State in severe or
extreme drought.
NEBRASKA: For the week ending January 3, 2021, topsoil moisture supplies
rated 15% very short, 41% short, 41% adequate, and 3% surplus. Subsoil
moisture supplies rated 16% very short, 47% short, 36% adequate, and 1%
surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 4% very poor, 11% poor, 48% fair, 36%
good, and 1% excellent.
NEVADA: Topsoil moisture 50% very short, 10% short, 30% adequate, 10%
surplus. Subsoil moisture 70% very short, 25% short, 5% adequate.
Temperatures for the month averaged 32.2 degrees, 0.4 degrees above normal.
Statewide average precipitation was 0.65 inches.
NEW ENGLAND: New England States experienced very variable weather - cold
days, snow, rain, and periods of warmth. In Maine, the ground water has been
recharged by December rain and snowmelt. Local producers have received
payments under emergency programs for pasture loss and for hauling water for
livestock. According to a New Hampshire reporter, one storm in December
brought anywhere from 3-12 inches of snow. Orchardists delayed the start of
pruning until after mid - December. According to a Rhode Island reporter,
while weather has been moderate and allows many animals to remain on pasture,
the season's drought has left very little pasture remaining. Hay is a
valuable commodity as herd owners are short even with NY and Canadian
supplies. Vermont experienced great weather for getting fall manure out
before the winter spreading ban. Some concern reported with freezing
temperatures.
NEW JERSEY: The State has experienced a harsh winter so far, with cold
temperatures, snow, and rain. Some fields were very wet from a continued
cycle of frequent rainfall. According to the December 16, 2020 State Board of
Agriculture State Board grower comments, harvest was almost complete in north
Jersey by mid-December. There was still some corn left to be harvested at
that time. In December, growers finished harvesting soybeans and processing
spinach. Vegetable and herb growers started up greenhouses for the spring
crops. Deer, bears, and groundhogs have caused considerable damage to some
crops and farmland.
NEW MEXICO: This report for New Mexico is for the entire month of
December 2020. Topsoil moisture 58% very short, 32% short, 6% adequate, 4%
surplus. Subsoil moisture 59% very short, 31% short, 6% adequate, 4% surplus.
Red chile harvested 97%, 93% last year. Corn harvested for grain 99%, 99%
last year. Cotton harvested 99%, 97% last year. Pecans harvested 87%, 49%
last year. Pecan condition 3% poor, 7% fair, 90% good. Winter wheat condition
15% very poor, 22% poor, 14% fair, 28% good, 21% excellent. Cattle receiving
supplemental feed 87%, 76% last year. Cattle condition 18% very poor, 12%
poor, 36% fair, 17% good, 17% excellent. Sheep receiving supplemental feed
85%, 77% last year. Sheep and lambs condition 39% very poor, 11% poor, 18%
fair, 29% good, 3% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 32% very short, 38%
short, 30% adequate. Stock water supplies 38% very short, 24% short, 38%
adequate. With little to no improvement in precipitation received during
December, soil moisture levels continued to drop and supplemental livestock
feeding continued to increase. Reports from several counties noted that the
wheat crop - both irrigated and non-irrigated - was suffering due to the lack
of moisture. In Union County, comments suggested that producers could not
keep enough irrigation water on their wheat fields, and some fear the crop
will not survive without improved natural moisture. With stock water depleted
and hay supplies limited, ranchers across the State were choosing to
partially or entirely cull their herds. Where available, cattle were turned
onto winter grazing. Converted monthly moisture totals - accounting for any
precipitation received as snow - ranged from approximately 3 inches to merely
a trace, with widespread dryness across many eastern counties. Areas with
above average precipitation were confined to northern, more mountainous
counties. According to the United States Drought Monitor for December 29, the
entire State was suffering from moderate drought or worse. Moderate drought
(D1) was present across less than 1 percent of the State. Severe drought (D2)
covered 17.3 percent of the State, compared with 20.4 percent on November 24.
Extreme drought (D3) was present across 29.1 percent of New Mexico, compared
with 28.3 percent on November 24. Exceptional drought (D4) continued to
expand, and now covered 64,680 square miles, or 53.2 percent of the State.
NEW YORK: The month of December was reported as being primarily a warmer
month throughout the State with only snow cover and ice in some areas. A few
areas reported being short on rainfall. Other areas reported heavy snowfall
(30 to 40+ inches) and flooding from the snow melt. Field work included
manure application where weather was favorable. Fall tillage and late harvest
was completed.
NORTH CAROLINA: For the week ending January 3, 2021 - Subsoil moisture
21% adequate, 79% surplus. Topsoil moisture 17% adequate and 83% surplus.
Barley condition 1% poor, 13% fair, 80% good, 6% excellent. Hay and roughage
supplies 2% short, 92% adequate, 6% surplus. Oats condition 37% fair, 63%
good. Pasture and range condition 2% poor, 53% fair, 44% good, and 1%
excellent. Winter wheat condition 3% poor, 35% fair, 61% good, and 1%
excellent. Throughout January, very wet conditions that was too wet for
fieldwork. Wheat under stress. Recent rainfall events have saturated soils in
the area. Most fields have standing water. Lighter, well-drained soils are in
better shape but still wet.
NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending January 3, 2021, topsoil moisture
supplies rated 28% very short, 43% short, 27% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil
moisture supplies rated 24% very short, 42% short, 33% adequate, 1% surplus.
Winter wheat condition rated 5% very poor, 17% poor, 52% fair, 25% good, 11%
excellent. Cattle and calf conditions, 2% very poor, 5% poor, 19% fair, 59%
good, 15% excellent. Sheep and lamb conditions, 0% very poor, 3% poor, 16%
fair, 59% good, 22% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies, 5% very short, 16%
short, 70% adequate, 9% surplus. Stock water supplies, 16% very short, 34%
short, 50% adequate, 0% surplus.
OHIO: Topsoil moisture for the month was 2% short, 51% adequate, and 47%
surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 1% very short, 5% short, 63%
adequate, and 31% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 1% poor, 26%
fair, 57% good, and 15% excellent. The Statewide average temperature was
33.4 degrees, 1.7 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 2.26 inches
Statewide, 0.66 inches below normal for December. Heavy amounts of lake-
effect snow fell during the first week of the month, mostly in the
northeastern part of the State. Other parts of the State saw variable
conditions. Livestock were reported to be under stress and needed watching
due to damp and fluctuating temperatures. Winter wheat stands remained in
good-to-fair condition with no major freeze and thaw events so far this
winter. Most unharvested corn was harvested by Christmas Day, but some
remains in fields. Other farm activities for the month included draining and
tilling fields.
OKLAHOMA: For the month of December, rainfall totals averaged 2.84 inches
throughout the State, 0.78 of an inch above normal. There was virtually no
change in the U.S. Drought Monitor depiction for Oklahoma throughout the
month, with a little over 25% of the State categorized in at least moderate
drought. Broken Bow's 8.22 inches led the December totals. Boise City had the
lowest total at 0.22 inches. Despite the winter weather, the Statewide
average temperature was 40.8 degrees, 1.9 degrees above normal. Topsoil and
subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly adequate to short.
OREGON: Statewide temperatures in Oregon for the month of December
remained near normal to above average with heavy rain activity reported
throughout the State. Benton, Lincoln, and Linn Counties reported extreme
amounts of rainfall in the Willamette Valley caused creeks to overflow into
fields and across backcountry roads. The grass crops looked good and provided
grazing for livestock. In Polk County, winter wheat crops looked good. Grass
seed crops looked average. Annual ryegrass grew well. Other grass seed crops
were dormant due to the high water table or low temperatures. High Vole
numbers were a problem; however, the rainy December may affect their numbers.
Pasture grasses had no growth so most livestock feeding took place in barns.
Goats and sheep were in barns preparing for kidding or lambing. In Columbia,
Multnomah, and Washington Counties, fall planted crops were doing well. Some
areas reported sporadic geese damage. High water occurred in rivers, which
spilled out into fields in Clatsop and Tillamook Counties, leaving standing
water in places. Pastures and cover crops looked good. Some geese and elk
activity occurred. In Hood River, Sherman, and Wasco Counties, wheat was up
and looked good. Livestock were also doing well with calving just around the
corner for some producers. Winter wheat crops looked good in Morrow County.
Baker, Grant, and Malheur Counties had snow followed by warm temperatures and
rain. Winter wheat was in fair to good conditions in Umatilla and Wallowa
Counties. Spotty fields filled in with the mild temperatures and rainfall.
Douglas, Jackson, and Josephine Counties benefitted from the substantial
winter rains recharging soil moisture. In vineyards and orchards, workers
were pruning. Central Oregon reported normal rainfall and very little snow
needed for the irrigation season. Snow pack was sparse in Klamath County.
PENNSYLVANIA: Brief but heavy mid-month snowfall melted quickly as
temperatures rose to finish out December, providing a needed recharge for
ground water and soil moisture. Wet conditions have deterred fieldwork and,
combined with warmer temperatures, have allowed for growth of chickweed,
which may prove problematic.
SOUTH CAROLINA: December temperatures were generally on par with historic
averages. Total rainfall during the month ranged from 0.8 inches to
6.3 inches. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 13 percent of the State
was experiencing abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to
6 percent at the beginning of the month. The abnormally dry conditions
remained confined to the southwestern border of the State. In central and
eastern counties, occasional heavy rains delayed harvesting of late-season
row crops and planting of small grains and cover crops. There were limited
reports of abandoned cotton and soybean acres in the Midlands as a result of
prolonged saturated soil. Most producers finished planting winter wheat, and
the crop was progressing well. Overall, winter wheat condition was fair to
good. Late-month freezes widely damaged uncovered or unprotected brassica
greens. Strawberries were progressing nicely, and producers continued to
treat for spider mites as needed. Vegetable crops in the Lowcountry were
harvested under ideal conditions throughout the month. Pastures and cattle
were in fair to good condition. Excessive rainfall in the Pee Dee region
caused some health concerns in livestock, including coccidia, pneumonia, and
salmonella. Winter annuals had slow growth from excessive moisture, but their
establishment was generally good.
SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending January 3, 2021, topsoil moisture
supplies rated 21% very short, 38% short, 41% adequate, 0% surplus. Subsoil
moisture supplies rated 23% very short, 40% short, 37% adequate, 0% surplus.
Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 7% poor, 55% fair, 36% good, and
1% excellent.
TENNESSEE: For the week ending January 3, Days suitable 3.0. Topsoil
moisture 1% short, 60% adequate, 39% surplus. Subsoil moisture 4% short, 66%
adequate, 30% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 2% poor 25% fair,
56% good, 16% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 1% very poor, 14% poor,
38% fair, 41% good, 6% excellent. Cattle condition 4% poor, 21% fair, 64%
good, 11% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 7% short, 78% adequate, 15%
surplus. Tennessee experienced increased moisture in December. Some report
saturated soils. Pastures have been impacted, leading producers to feed hay
to livestock. Hay and roughage supplies appear adequate for the winter
season. Winter wheat condition reported mostly good. Cattle condition is
currently reported mostly good.
TEXAS: During the month of December, precipitation mostly ranged from
trace amounts to upwards of 3 inches, with isolated areas in East Texas and
the Upper Coast receiving upwards of 8 inches of rain. Very isolated areas of
East Texas and the Upper Coast received 10 to 15 inches. Cotton harvest was
virtually complete throughout the State. Small grains seeding was nearing
completion, however, development was behind normal in some areas. Livestock
condition continued fair to good. Supplemental feeding continued Statewide.
UTAH: This report for Utah is for the entire month of December, 2020.
Topsoil moisture 18% very short, 52% short, 30% adequate. Subsoil moisture
26% very short, 39% short, 35% adequate. Pasture and range condition 24% very
poor, 35% poor, 33% fair, 7% good, 1% excellent. Winter wheat condition 5%
very poor, 22% poor, 58% fair, 15% good. Hay and roughage supplies 2% very
short, 17% short, 69% adequate, 12% surplus. Stock water supplies 21% very
short, 34% short, 44% adequate, 1% surplus. Cattle and calves condition 1%
very poor, 4% poor, 31% fair, 61% good, 3% excellent. Sheep and lambs
condition 3% poor, 37% fair, 58% good, 2% excellent. Livestock receiving
supplemental feed for cattle 78%. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for
sheep 56%. Extremely dry conditions have caused water supplies to
deteriorate.
VIRGINIA: For week ending January 3; 2021, Days suitable 3.4. Topsoil
moisture 5% short, 47% adequate and 48% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very
short, 3% short, 57% adequate and 39% surplus. Winter wheat condition 12%
poor, 46% fair, 39% good and 3% excellent. Barley condition 4% poor, 41%
fair, 52% good, 3% excellent. Livestock condition 3% poor, 37% fair, 55%
good, 5% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 3% very poor, 28% poor, 42%
fair, 25% good and 2% excellent. Hay supplies 1% very short, 9% short, 79%
adequate and 10% surplus. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 22%.
Virginia experienced above average precipitation and normal temperatures in
December slowing some grain crop harvesting. Muddy feeding/pasture conditions
prevail due to rain and thawing during the day. Hay and roughage supplies are
mostly adequate. Farming activities for the end of the month included
finishing grain crop harvest in between rain events, preparing for winter
grazing, equipment maintenance, and preparations for 2021 season.
WASHINGTON: The Statewide temperatures in Washington for the month of
December were slightly below normal to above normal throughout the State. In
San Juan County, the month of December was extremely wet. Many lowland fields
were flooded with storm water. Most ponds had already filled, which was about
two months early. Livestock were on stockpiled feed and those farms with
adequate heavy-use areas with cover had livestock out of the weather. The
pruning of berry crops was completed in some locations with orchard trees and
vines to be next. In Skagit County, the fields were very wet. In Snohomish
County, it was so wet that nothing was happening outside. Fields were beyond
saturated. Water pooled everywhere. Seed orders were commencing. In Yakima
County, vegetable fields were mostly tilled and ready to plant. Orchards were
in the process of being pruned and trained. There was a significant amount of
orchard tear out. In Klickitat County, moisture was received. No cropping
happened at this time of the year. Ranchers were busy feeding livestock in
ideal conditions, due to the lack of snow. In northeast Washington, the
winter had been mild. Snow was received in the northern part of Stevens
County on December 30. In east central Washington, snow continued to
accumulate, providing insulation to winter wheat and alleviating drought
conditions. No fieldwork was occurring. Crop conditions were good. Winter
wheat conditions were normal. Cattle were being moved to feeding grounds. In
southwest Washington, most winter crops looked good. The soil moisture
content was coming back up due to the winter rains.
WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending January 3, Topsoil moisture 11% short,
69% adequate, and 20% surplus. Subsoil moisture 9% short, 77% adequate, and
14% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 12% short, 80% adequate, and 8%
surplus. Feed grain supplies 10% short, 84% adequate, and 6% surplus. Winter
wheat condition 47% fair, 52% good, and 1% excellent. Cattle and calves
condition 2% poor, 28% fair, 64% good, and 6% excellent. Sheep and lambs
condition 3% poor, 23% fair, 69% good, and 5% excellent. Weather conditions
for the month have been a mix of warmer and cooler temperatures with periods
of rain and some snow. Farming activities for the month included feeding hay
and grain to livestock.
WISCONSIN: December temperatures at the five major weather stations were
all above normal. They ranged from 6.6 degrees above normal in Green Bay to
3.3 degrees above normal in Madison. Average highs ranged from 32.8 degrees
in Eau Claire to 37.9 degrees in Milwaukee, while average lows ranged from
15.4 degrees in Eau Claire to 25.5 degrees in Milwaukee. Precipitation ranged
from 0.36 inches in La Crosse to 2.15 inches in Milwaukee. Madison received
the most snowfall out of the major cities with 13.5 inches. Eau Claire
received the least, with 3.7 inches of snow for the month. Much of Wisconsin
remains covered in snow following storms received in the last days of
December. Despite frozen ground halting tillage for the winter, mild
temperatures helped manure hauling and livestock feeding activities.
WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of December
2020. Topsoil moisture 35% very short, 44% short, 21% adequate. Subsoil
moisture 49% very short, 33% short, 18% adequate. Winter wheat condition 5%
very poor, 9% poor, 71% fair, 10% good, 5% excellent. Livestock condition 3%
poor, 28% fair, 68% excellent, 1% excellent. Stock water supplies 15% very
short, 14% short, 71% adequate. Hay and roughage supplies 18% very short, 21%
short, 60% adequate, 1% surplus. Pasture and range condition 23% very poor,
24% poor, 41% fair, 12% good. Wyoming's drought conditions held fast for the
month of December. According to the National Integrated Drought Information
System's report released December 31, 2020, the amount of land rated
abnormally dry, moderately dry, severely dry, and extremely dry were 8.3%,
33.2%, 28.4% and 25.4%, respectively. A small portion of the State was
experiencing exceptional drought conditions at 0.4%. Producers are hoping for
sufficient spring moisture given the current lack of precipitation. Snow was
on the ground in areas of the Southwest, but totals were below normal.
Dryness persisted in East-central portions of the State according to one
reporter, with below normal snowpack.
Statistical Methodology
Survey Procedures: Crop progress and condition estimates included in this
report are based on survey data collected in December, January, February, and
March. The non-probability crop progress and condition surveys include input
from approximately 4,000 respondents whose occupations provide them
opportunities to make visual observations and frequently bring them in
contact with farmers in their counties. Based on standard definitions, these
respondents subjectively estimate the progress of crops through various
stages of development, as well as the progress of producer activities. They
also provide subjective evaluations of crop and soil moisture conditions. Any
weather data mentioned in this report is provided by outside sources such as
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Agricultural
Weather Information Service (AWIS).
Information Contacts
Listed below are the commodity statisticians in the Crops Branch of the
National Agricultural Statistics Service to contact for additional
information. E-mail inquiries may be sent to nass@usda.gov
Lance Honig, Chief, Crops Branch.............................. (202) 720-2127
Chris Hawthorn, Head, Field Crops Section..................... (202) 720-2127
Irwin Anolik - Crop Weather.............................. (202) 720-7621
Joshua Bates - Oats, Soybeans............................ (202) 690-3234
David Colwell - Current Agricultural Industrial Reports.. (202) 720-8800
James Johanson - Barley, County Estimates, Hay........... (202) 690-8533
Greg Lemmons - Corn, Flaxseed, Proso Millet.............. (202) 720-9526
Jean Porter - Rye, Wheat................................. (202) 720-8068
Becky Sommer - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum.......... (202) 720-5944
John Stephens - Peanuts, Rice............................ (202) 720-7688
Travis Thorson - Sunflower, Other Oilseeds............... (202) 720-7369
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For your convenience, you may access NASS reports and products the following
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