Crop Progress - State Stories ISSN: 2470-9816 Released January 4, 2017, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ALABAMA: The long lasting drought conditions of 2016 eased throughout the State in December. Much needed rainfall came, with some areas receiving significantly more than others. The heaviest rainfall was in the lower part of the State, with too much falling too fast, causing some flooding issues. It has been scattered elsewhere, with producers in those areas still needing more rain for emerging small grains and replenishing water supplies. Pasture conditions are improving in some areas, but for many, they have already gone dormant as the rain came too late. Cattle conditions are fair as they are continuing to be fed due to lack of grazing. Hay supplies are running low, critically low in some areas, with producers seeking more for the remainder of the winter. Small grains plantings were lower than usual, and stands have been vulnerable to either not having enough moisture or being washed out. Temperatures have fluctuated between below normal and above normal. Average mean temperatures for the month ranged from 44°F in Hamilton to 58°F in Mobile. Precipitation estimates for the month ranged from 3.28 inches in Gainesville to 16.29 inches in Mobile. ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE ARIZONA: Temperatures across the State were mostly above normal for the month of December with the only exception being the first week of the month where only 1 of the 52 weather stations was above normal. The temperature extremes for December were a high of 86°F in Sahuarita and a low of -5°F at the Grand Canyon. Thirteen of the 52 reporting stations finished the year with above normal precipitation. Nogales had the lowest percent of normal precipitation at 47 and Prescott finished the highest with 126% of normal precipitation. Cotton harvesting was virtually complete by the end of the month. Alfalfa harvesting had occurred on at least two-thirds of the planted acres. Barley planted was 25% complete and Durum wheat planted was 22% complete at the end of December. Vegetable and citrus harvesting activities continued throughout the month. ARKANSAS: The month of December was fairly wet especially compared to November and October. The livestock conditions are good. Temperatures have been moderate in the last month with only a short period of extreme cold that may have stressed them some. Wheat crops are showing some signs of cold stress, but have adequate moisture. There was quite a bit of late planted (late November, early December) wheat. CALIFORNIA: Temperature highs were in the 30s to 50s in the mountains, 40s to 50s along the coast and in the valley, and 50s to 70s in the desert. The temperature lows were between 0s and 30s in the mountains, 20s to 40s in the desert, 30s to 40s in the coast and valley. Rainfall was limited to the far northwestern mountains on Monday, where over an inch of rain fell. Tuesday and Wednesday were fairly dry, with the Pineapple Express beginning on Thursday evening affecting areas from Salinas to Los Angeles with light rain. Friday and Saturday saw moderate to heavy rain across the southern third of the State, with the heaviest rainfall totals over 2 inches in and around Bakersfield. The deserts received around an inch of rain, while other locations in the southern valley saw up to an inch. Upslope showers also affected the central Sierras, where up to half an inch of rain fell. On Sunday, the main rainfall areas shifted to the northern half of the State, where most locations saw up to a quarter inch of rain, but the northwestern mountains and windward slopes of the Sierras saw just over half an inch. Field preparation for winter forage crops continued where the moisture level of the ground allowed. Winter wheat continued to progress well due to adequate moisture in the soil. Post-harvest pruning and orchard removal continued in all deciduous tree fruit orchards and vineyards. Wet weather slowed citrus harvest. Navel and Mandarin oranges were harvested and exported. Melogold grapefruit, lemons, and limes were exported. New planting of citrus trees were covered for frost protection. Almonds, pistachios, shelled and in-shell walnuts, and shelled pecans continued to be packed and shipped. Nut orchards continued to be pruned, irrigated, and treated in preparation for their dormant season. Orchard replanting continued. In San Joaquin County, winter Farmers' Market vegetables were harvested. In Fresno County, winter vegetables were in good condition. Irrigation was not needed due to the rainy weather. With snow covering at higher rangeland, more cattle were in valley pastures and most were being fed supplemental hay. In Fresno County, supplemental feeding of livestock continued as new germination of rangeland grasses improved from recent rains. Sheep were grazing on idle crop fields, dormant alfalfa, and stubble crop grounds. COLORADO: Topsoil moisture 10% very short, 36% short, 52% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 10% very short, 34% short, 55% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 23% poor, 35% fair, 38% good, 2% excellent. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 14% fair, 72% good, 10% excellent. Pasture and range condition 1% very poor, 26% poor, 43% fair, 27% good, 3% excellent. Seasonal snow and rainfall provided beneficial moisture within the western part of the State and along the Front Range, with eastern counties receiving sporadic moisture. Reporters in eastern districts noted lack of winter snow cover, coupled with cold and mostly dry conditions, is a concern for the health of winter wheat stands. Pasture condition remains a concern in areas that received little good moisture. Livestock are in good condition with sufficient feed supplies and availability of winter grazing. As of January 1, 2017, snowpack in the State was at 113% measured as percent of median snowfall. DELAWARE: For the month of December maximum registered temperature was 64°F with minimum of 12°F. There were 10 instances of precipitation with near maximum of 0.77 inches of rain in a single day and total accumulation of 2- 3 inches for the month. The weather conditions contributed to pasture and cover crop growth and soybean growers were able to complete the soybean harvest by beginning of December. Some dry field conditions allowed extended manure hauling. Minimal freezing temperature has had no mayor effects on freezing soil. No mayor health issues was reported with animal. Many producers were feeding hay even with the available forages. No freeze kill has occurred to the tillage radishes that were planted yet to date. December goes in the books as one of the warmest, foggy and cloudy December's on record. Other than farming activities for the month included taking soil samples, repairing and cleaning up equipment, purchasing supplies, tax planning, pricing inputs for 2017, and attending workshops as usual for the month. FLORIDA: December started mostly warm and dry. The Panhandle and northern counties were under abnormally dry conditions, which spread throughout the month to include several counties in the middle of the State. Cotton, soybean, and peanut harvesting all wrapped up at the beginning of the month. Sugarcane harvest continued in Glades, Hendry, and Palm Beach Counties. Less winter cover crops and forages were able to be planted in the Panhandle and northern part of State due to the dry conditions. Flagler and Putnam Counties began harvesting cabbage and leafy greens. Farmers in southwest harvested green beans, beets, collards, cucumbers, eggplant, herbs, kale, peppers, squash, Swiss chard, tomatoes, watermelon. Palm Beach County farmers used ditches, canals, and other equipment to irrigate. Miami-Dade County harvested green beans, pole beans, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, yellow squash, sweet potatoes, sweet corn, zucchini, boniato, bitter melon, malanga, and avocado. The dry conditions and warm temperatures had pasture quality and quantity declining steadily throughout the month. The cattle, however remained in mostly fair to good condition. Supplemental feeding was reported in several counties. Early orange harvest activities increased at the beginning of month. Grapefruit harvest was in full swing by the end of the month, with internal quality holding well. All processing plants were open and accepting field-run fruit by the end of the month. The navel oranges, white grapefruit, and red grapefruit harvest schedule was slightly ahead of last season. Grove work included irrigating, mowing, spraying, fertilizing. Caretakers were replacing unproductive trees and taking care of healthy older trees and resets with various types of fertilization programs. Old, non-productive groves were being pushed and cleared. GEORGIA: According to the U.S Drought Monitor, more than 80% of the State remained in a moderate to severe drought throughout December with the most severe areas in the northern half of the State. Total precipitation for the month ranged from 1.8 inches of rain in Polk County to 13.5 inches in Dougherty County. December rains provided limited drought relief and allowed some producers to plant late-season winter forages and small grains, but many others were unsuccessful because dry weather persisted throughout the planting window. Forages and small grains began to emerge, but were expected to yield very little due to late planting. Some sightings of aphids were reported in the southern portion of the State. The fall drought not only limited traditional winter grazing, but also harmed permanent grazing. Many livestock producers were quickly depleting local hay supplies and paying a premium for forage from increased shipping distances. Fears of hay shortages continued. Cattle producers fed mixed rations to supplement lower quality hay. Emergency feed assistance was activated for several counties. Cattle, sheep, and goats were in good condition, despite the drought. Cooler temperatures helped fruit crops accumulate much needed chill hours. Camarosa strawberries were growing well. Vegetable growers began laying plastic for the upcoming season. Majority of onions were planted and doing well. Cotton harvest was nearly complete. HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE IDAHO: December brought lots of snow and freezing rain to the State. Areas from all over the State received up to 2 feet of snow during the month. Average daytime highs were in the 40s with many lows below zero. Average temperatures ranged from 10°F below normal to 2°F above normal. Due to the extended snow cover, deer, elk and wild turkeys entered domestic livestock areas of local farms in search of food, causing predation issues. Winter grazing was difficult due to the frequent precipitation. Most cattle were on full feed. Livestock owners in many areas were struggling to keep supplies of unfrozen water and hay available. In a few areas of the south, there was some pneumonia reported in the livestock due to fluctuating weather conditions. There was also some newborn loss. However, many other reporters stated local livestock were in fair to excellent condition in spite of harsh conditions. Most cropland was covered in snow. South central regions reported good snow cover to protect the winter cereals. Good snowpack had farmers optimistic about the water outlook for the coming season. Accumulation of snow in the southwest was well above normal. ILLINOIS: Topsoil moisture 5% short, 87% adequate, 8% surplus. Subsoil moisture 6% short, 88% adequate, 6% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 4% poor, 25% fair, 57% good, 12% excellent. Statewide, temperatures for the month of December averaged 28.6°F, 1.2°F below normal. Precipitation averaged 1.41 inches, 1.28 inches below normal. Normal winter conditions were reported throughout the State. INDIANA: Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 6% short, 75% adequate, 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 8% short, 82% adequate, 9% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 23% fair, 62% good, 11% excellent. The Statewide average temperature was 29.8°F, 1.3°F below normal. Statewide average precipitation 3.06 inches, 0.71 inches below normal. Temperatures dropped sharply during the middle of the month, mainly in northern Indiana. Snow cover protected wheat to some extent in that region. Temperatures rebounded during the last week of the month, melting snow and creating muddy conditions. Precipitation in the far southern portion of the State helped alleviate dry conditions that were prevalent beginning in the fall. Livestock were in good condition and pastures in the south remained green. Other activities included clearing fencerows, repairing and installing drainage tile, applying lime and hauling grain to market. IOWA: Weather has been mostly mild so far this winter. Iowa experienced variable temperatures for the month of December, swinging from above to below normal and back again. Little snow cover remained in the State as the month came to a close; much of it melting off with warm conditions and rain. Moisture supplies are considered sufficient to start the next growing season. Fieldwork activities for the month of December included dry fertilizer, anhydrous, lime and manure applications. Some tiling and terracing also took place in the southern third of the State. Grain movement in December was mostly light to non-existent. There were scattered reports of corn moving to ethanol plants and feed mills. Some outside corn piles have already been removed, others are dwindling, and some remain intact. Adequate hay supplies for livestock at this time. Cattle still grazing on corn stalks in some areas. Temperature swings have been rough on cattle, creating some health problems. KANSAS: Topsoil moisture 23% very short, 34% short, 42% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 16% very short, 28% short, 55% adequate, and 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 5% very poor, 14% poor, 37% fair, 42% good, 2% excellent. Cotton 92% harvested, 95% 2015. Stock water supplies 2% very short, 8% short, 89% adequate, and 1% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 0% very short, 3% short, 83% adequate, 14% surplus. Cattle and calf condition, 1% very poor, 2% poor, 22% fair, 68% good, 7% excellent. Calving progress 7% complete. Cattle and calf death loss, 0% heavy, 55% average, 45% light. Sheep and lamb conditions, 0% very poor, 0% poor, 13% fair, 82% good, 5% excellent. Lambing progress 3% complete. Sheep and lamb death loss, 0% heavy, 55% average, 45% light. Near-normal temperatures were experienced in eastern Kansas, whereas the west experienced temperatures from 3 to 5°F below normal. Most the State remained dry, prompting some concerns over the development of winter wheat. KENTUCKY: The majority of counties were still in a Moderate or Severe Drought rating from the U S Drought Monitor through mid-December. As precipitation improved towards the end of the month, some counties still had an Abnormally Dry rating. Precipitation for the month totaled 5.54 inches, 1.12 inches above normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 5.29 inches, Central 6.06 inches, Bluegrass 5.26 inches and East 5.53 inches, which was 0.46, 1.26, 1.41 and 1.32 inches above normal respectively. Temperatures averaged 38°F for the month, near normal. High temperatures averaged from 45°F in the West to 47°F in the East. Low temperatures averaged from 30°F in the West to 31°F in the East. Milder temperatures and rainfall have resulted in muddy field conditions in some areas. Tobacco producers continued to strip their tobacco when conditions allowed. The amount of tobacco stripped was 81%, compared to 87% last year. Winter wheat was rated in mostly good condition, but there are spots in some fields where dry weather affected stands, and delayed and/or non-uniform emergence occurred. Winter wheat conditions were rated as 3% very poor, 8% poor, 33% fair, 45% good, and 11% excellent. Most producers feel hay supplies are adequate, however quality may be an issue due to dry conditions experienced in October and November. Hay and roughage supplies were reported as 4% very short, 14% short, 74% adequate, and 8% surplus. Livestock was rated in mostly good condition, although many producers started to supplement pastures with hay earlier this season. Additionally, some pastures are being reseeded in areas that were impacted by severe and extreme drought. Livestock conditions were rated as 1% very poor, 2% poor, 20% fair, 64% good, and 13% excellent. LOUISIANA: Recent rainfall and mild temperatures have improved ryegrass pasture conditions for December. Mild winter conditions have helped keep cattle in descent body condition during the delayed transition from warm season to cool season forages. Cattle producers are beginning to graze ryegrass. Temperatures have been above normal for this time of year causing rapid growth of winter weeds. Commercial vegetable production is doing fine and plentiful. Sugarcane harvest is now complete. Majority of the beef cattle is doing well due to very mild winter. Some parts of the State received up to several inches of rain. MARYLAND: For the month of December maximum registered temperature was 64°F with minimum of 12°F. There were 10 instances of precipitation with near maximum of 0.77 inch of rain in a single day and total accumulation of 2- 3 inches for the month. The weather conditions contributed to pasture and cover crop growth and soybean growers were able to complete the soybean harvest by beginning of December. Some dry field conditions allowed extended manure hauling. Minimal freezing temperature has had no mayor effects on freezing soil. No mayor health issues was reported with animal. Many producers were feeding hay even with the available forages. No freeze kill has occurred to the tillage radishes that were planted yet to date. December goes in the books as one of the warmest, foggy and cloudy December's on record. Other than farming activities for the month included taking soil samples, repairing and cleaning up equipment, purchasing supplies, tax planning, pricing inputs for 2017, and attending workshops as usual for the month. MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 61% adequate, 39% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% short, 73% adequate, 25% surplus. Winter wheat condition, 3% very poor, 6% poor, 27% fair, 47% good, 17% excellent. Temperatures were generally above normal early in the month, but fell well below normal during mid-December, then rose above normal at month's end. The variance in temperatures caused health issues for livestock in some areas. There was adequate precipitation during December, in the form of snow and rain, available to the Winter Wheat crop, although the lack of frost and snow cover at the end of the month was a concern. Some producers took advantage of the lack of snow to haul manure and prune orchards. MINNESOTA: Temperatures for the month averaged 16.7°F, 0.4°F above average. Statewide average precipitation was 1.77 inches, 0.79 inch above normal. A blizzard on December 6-7 brought heavy snow and serious wind chills to northwestern Minnesota. There were reports of 6 to 13 inches of snow received, including some new daily record snowfalls. A slow-moving system moved across the State December 10-12, bringing significant snowfall. Some of the new daily snowfall records reported for December 11 include 7.0 inches of snow in Owatonna, 10.0 inches in Canby, and 8.2 inches in Duluth. A third winter storm passed through Minnesota on December 16-17. A powerful low pressure system on Christmas day brought snow to northwestern and northern Minnesota, while a combination of thunderstorms, sleet, freezing rain, and rain hit the rest of the State. The storm created ice covered feedlots in many areas, leaving producers concerned about foot and leg injuries associated with the icy conditions. There were also concerns about winterkill on alfalfa that iced over due to the freezing rains. Totals show a new annual precipitation record set for the Twin Cities, at 40.32 inches. MISSISSIPPI: The fall planting season for forages started out very dry and unseasonably warm. The early warm weather helped winter grazing, but cool season grazing was behind due to drought in the fall. This caused producers to lose a few months of winter forage production and led many to feed hay starting in early fall. There's a growing concern of depleting reserves leading many producers to believe that there may not be enough hay to make through the winter. Late rains throughout the State helped improve water levels. Stock ponds began to fill back up, but still have a long way to go to be back to normal. Winter pastures have made some improvements but still not at the level under a normal year. MISSOURI: Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 17% short, 72% adequate, 9% surplus. Subsoil moisture 3% very short, 20% short, 73% adequate, 4% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 2% short, 82% adequate, 16% surplus. Stock water supplies 2% very short, 16% short, 81% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter Wheat condition 4% poor, 52% fair, 40% good, 4% excellent. MONTANA: Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 4% last year; 10% short, 16% last year; 83% adequate, 76% last year; 5% surplus, 4% last year. Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 7% last year; 18% short, 26% last year; 73% adequate, 63% last year; 4% surplus, 4% last year. Winter wheat - wind damage 66% none, 91% last year; 28% light, 8% last year; 6% moderate, 1% last year; 0% heavy, 0% last year. Winter wheat - freeze and drought damage 78% none, 88% last year; 15% light, 10% last year; 7% moderate, 2% last year; 0% heavy, 0% last year. Winter wheat - protectiveness of snow cover 7% very poor, 6% last year; 5% poor, 13% last year; 29% fair, 28% last year; 40% good, 35% last year; 19% excellent, 18% last year. Livestock grazing accessibility - 23% open, 24% last year; 39% difficult, 38% last year; 38% closed, 38% last year. Livestock receiving supplemental feed - cattle and calves 97% fed, 97% last year. Livestock receiving supplemental feed - sheep and lambs 98% fed, 98% last year. The month of December was mostly very cold with periods of snow and high wind for the State of Montana, though there were brief periods of above average temperatures between storm systems. High temperatures ranged from the lower 30s to the lower 50s and all reporting stations recorded subzero lows with the coldest reported in West Yellowstone and Wisdom at -43°F. Precipitation in the form of snowfall was present across the State but in variable amounts, with the highest recorded this month in West Yellowstone with 3.78 inches of moisture. Topsoil moisture conditions were 88% adequate to surplus which is above last year's 80%. Subsoil moisture conditions are 77% adequate to surplus which is well above last year's 67%. So far winter freeze and wind damage to winter wheat remains low but reporters note the extent of damage may be hard to gauge until the crop breaks dormancy in the spring, particularly in the central portion of the State. Snow coverage for the State is rated 59% good to excellent compared with 53% at this time last year. Winter wheat condition is rated 58% good to excellent, compared with 74% last year. Pasture and range conditions improved from the last report with 45% rated good to excellent, which is a great improvement over last year's 16%. Livestock producers are providing supplemental feed at same rate as the previous year at this time with 97% of cattle and 98% of sheep being fed. NEBRASKA: Topsoil moisture 12% very short, 22% short, 64% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 11% very short, 26% short, 62% adequate, and 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 8% poor, 44% fair, 41% good, 5% excellent. Stock water supplies 0% very short, 8% short, 91% adequate, and 1% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 0% very short, 3% short, 91% adequate, 6% surplus. Cattle and calf condition, 0% very poor, 1% poor, 17% fair, 71% good, 11% excellent. Cattle and calf death loss, 0% heavy, 54% average, 46% light. Sheep and lamb conditions, 0% very poor, 1% poor, 20% fair, 72% good, 7% excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss, 0% heavy, 75% average, 25% light. Temperatures averaged 2 to 6°F below normal. Precipitation in the form of snow and rain was recorded during the month. High winds on Christmas day caused damage to numerous pivots in south central counties. At the end of the month, snow cover was limited to northern Panhandle counties. This allowed good use of stalk fields for winter grazing in other areas. NEVADA: Humboldt County reported snow. The ground remains frozen, and has likely halted ground work until early to mid-March. Most livestock were fed hay and will continue until March or April. Lincoln County reported rain, bringing overall soil moisture levels up for December. The south east of the State saw some moisture but no snowfall. Cold temperatures have maintained in Mineral County, with little rain but no snow. Cattle in Mineral County were out on range land. Douglas County saw some snow and moisture, leading to an optimistic water situation for the coming spring and good current soil moisture. Continuous grazing continued in Douglas County, particularly for cows about to calve. NEW ENGLAND: Although some rain and snowfall improved water level conditions in many areas over the prior month, many areas of New England were subject to D0 Abnormally Dry to D3 Extreme Drought conditions with only the northernmost part of Maine having no drought. Massachusetts and western parts of Connecticut had the most extreme conditions. As such, soils remain dry in most parts of the region. Feed and hay was short in the region and purchased from other areas. Cover crops were reported as looking good. Most producers spent time doing general farm maintenance as well as administrative activities such as income tax planning. Cranberry bogs still lacked the necessary water for winter flooding. Orchardists prepared for pruning apple trees and Christmas tree growers finished up their season. Fresh greens were sold at winter farmers markets. Maple producers were getting ready for the 2017 season. NEW JERSEY: The State average temperature in December was 36.5°F, with a low temperature of 14°F and a high temperature of 62°F. Total precipitation in New Jersey for the month of December was 2.65 inches. Field activities included hauling manure and preparing seeds for the spring. Cover crops including rye, wheat, and barley have been planted. Producers moved and marketed Christmas trees and poinsettias. NEW MEXICO: Topsoil moisture 14% very short, 49% short, 34% adequate, 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture 13% very short, 40% short, 47% adequate. Red chile harvested 99%, 87% November 27. Corn harvested for grain 100%, 65% November 27, 100% last year. Cotton harvested 92%, 87% November 27, 100% last year. Pecans harvested 52%, 30% November 27, 100% last year. Pecan condition 3% fair, 82% good, 15% excellent. Sorghum harvested 100%, 54% November 27. Winter wheat condition 8% very poor, 38% poor, 46% fair, 5% good, 3% excellent. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 81%, 53% November 27, 86% last year. Cattle condition 2% very poor, 4% poor, 34% fair, 55% good, 5% excellent. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 71%, 65% November 27, 78% last year. Sheep and lamb condition 11% very poor, 17% poor, 16% fair, 56% good. Hay and roughage supplies 4% very short, 12% short, 71% adequate, 13% surplus. Stock water supplies 8% very short, 28% short, 63% adequate, 1% surplus. December was an unusually warm month for much of New Mexico, with above average temperatures dominating all areas except a few locations in the northeast. Specifically, average temperatures varied from -3°F to 7°F above normal. Daytime highs ranged from 45°F at Eagle Nest to 77°F at Antelope Wells and Carlsbad. Overnight lows varied from -19°F at Eagle Nest to 25°F at NMSU. Monthly moisture totals varied drastically depending on location, with the southwest accumulating above average precipitation to help replenish depleted soil moisture levels that were affected by an extremely dry 2016. The largest precipitation total was reported at Gila Hot Spring, where 2.99 inches of moisture fell during December. Additionally, Animas, Chama, Cloudcroft, and Redrock also recorded over 2 inches of precipitation during the month. Conversely, much of the northeast was extremely dry when compared with normal. Comments from Union County indicated that strong winds coupled with dry weather led to dusty conditions in many wheat pastures resulting in sick calves. In Curry County, reports suggested that wheat condition had declined rapidly in late-December, forcing many producers that were grazing wheat fields to reduce their stocking rates, find additional pastures, sell their cattle, or move them to feed yards. Producers in Dona Ana County were able to harvest 100% of the cabbage crop during the month, while excessive rainfall was slowing the pecan harvest. NEW YORK: Winter is underway in New York. Much of the Empire State received ample snow throughout the month of December 2016, replenishing water reserves that were used up throughout 2016's drought. Many fields are covered in ice or snow, but are melting as the weather fluctuates. Harvesting of late crops was finally completed. Year-over-year "YOY" corn grain yields are reported as being down 20-40%, but of exceptional quality. YOY soybean yields are reported as being down 15-30%, but of exceptional quality as well. Field activities for the month include late harvesting, tending livestock, trees, and vines, fixing and maintaining machinery and structures, and manure and fertilizer application. NORTH CAROLINA: Days suitable for field work 4.6. Topsoil moisture 0% very short, 7% short, 74% adequate and 19% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 8% short, 79% adequate and 12% surplus. Barley condition 1% very poor, 15% poor, 58% fair, 25% good and 1% excellent. Oats condition 0% very poor, 1% poor, 39% fair, 59% good and 1% excellent. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 5% poor, 25% fair, 51% good and 19% excellent. Pasture and range condition 4% very poor, 42% poor, 32% fair, 21% good and 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 6% very short, 21% short, 72% adequate and 1% surplus. Rain has limited field activity. December has been a mild month with warmer than normal temperatures and less than normal precipitation. Most of the counties received between 3.5-4.0 inches of rain during the month. Rains over the past few days have replenished water supplies. Temperatures are normal for time of year. NORTH DAKOTA: Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 6% short, 70% adequate, 22% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 6% short, 80% adequate, 12% surplus. Winter wheat condition, 2% very poor, 2% poor, 13% fair, 77% good, 6% excellent. Cattle and calves condition, 1% very poor, 3% poor, 23% fair, 66% good, 7% excellent. Cattle and calves death loss, 4% heavy, 51% average, 45% light. Sheep and lambs condition, 1% very poor, 6% poor, 26% fair, 61% good, 6% excellent. Sheep and lambs death loss, 4% heavy, 45% average, 51% light. Hay and roughage supplies, 1% very short, 12% short, 84% adequate, 5% surplus. Stock water supplies, 1% very short, 10% short, 84% adequate, 5% surplus. Heavy snow across much of the State caused hardship for livestock producers. Multiple winter storms made access to feed and facilities difficult. Temperatures averaged from 2°F above normal to 6°F below normal across the State. OHIO: Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 11% short, 68% adequate, and 20% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 21% short, 65% adequate, 13% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% poor, 15% fair, 67% good, and 17% excellent. The December 2016 Statewide average temperature was 31.0°F, 0.7°F below normal. Precipitation averaged 3.38 inches Statewide, which was 0.46 inches above normal for the month of December. Most of the State saw decent snow cover on fall planted crops through most of December. Warmer temperatures and rain melted much of the snow at the end of the month. There have not been any hard freezes without adequate snow cover, but more snow will be needed to shield the crop from further cold weather. Wheat appears to be doing well with slightly above average precipitation. Fields are too soggy at the moment for field work. OKLAHOMA: The State experienced cold and dry weather for the month of December. On December 16, a front brought the coldest weather since February 2011, dropping temperatures 60°F in a 24 hour period. According to the OCS Mesonet, the Statewide average temperature was 38.4°F, 0.5 of a point below normal and the 50th coolest December since records began in 1895. Precipitation ranged from 1.48 inches in the Southeast district to 0.46 of an inch in the North Central district. Statewide temperatures averaged in the high 30's, with the lowest recording of -18°F at Beaver on Sunday, December 18th and the highest recording of 62°F at Broken Bow on Monday, December 26th. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly adequate to short. OREGON: The Statewide temperature differential for the month of December ranged from 0°F to 11°F below normal. A low temperature was reported at -20°F Fahrenheit in the northeast region. A high temperature was reported at 60°F Fahrenheit in the northern coastal region. The heavy rains of fall subsided a bit in December as most regions reported average to below average cumulative precipitation. The exceptions were some of the southern regions where better than average snowfall was reported. December was still wet in the northern coastal region. Grass cover crops had mixed survival. Goose damage was apparent in some fields with newer plantings. In the north central region, winter wheat was in the three leaf to 3 tiller stage under a 3 to 7 inch layer of snow. In the northeast region, the colder than normal temperatures arrived as calving season was about to begin. While snow cover on fall- planted winter wheat eased winter kill concerns, extra precautions were taken to protect newborn calves. In the southwest region, the cold weather kept most orchard, vineyard, and berry crops in deep dormancy. The cold weather was good for knocking down pest populations, especially the spotted wing drosophila. Most growers waited for drier ground and the colder weather to pass before resuming additional pruning operations. The southeast region experienced higher than average snowpack. Total snowpack in the Owyhee Basin was reported at 144% of normal. Portions of Lake County reported significant snow accumulation at higher elevations. Although still early, the 2017 irrigation conditions in the southeast region were off to a promising start compared to the past several years. PENNSYLVANIA: December weather in Pennsylvania was a bit undecided, ranging from cold and snowy (or sunny) to warm and rainy (or clear). Warmer temperatures crept up towards the month's end greeting the New Year with some brisk but otherwise pleasant weather. Overall, temperatures ranged from a high of 59°F to a low of 14°F with a resulting December average temperature of 39°F. The current lack of snow cover has some concerned about cover crop exposure to a potential freeze while others hope that this will allow rain to permeate and recharge the dry soil. Minimal field activity is expected this time of year but some took advantage of the warmer days to get in field work such as manure hauling. SOUTH CAROLINA: December brought much needed rain to the State and helped bring the annual precipitation significantly closer to the State's yearly average. Temperatures have been warm for December but there were also a few frosts during the month. In the western part of the State, small grain crops were planted and are benefitting from the rain. The summer drought left many producers having to completely re-seed their pasture and purchase additional hay. In central and eastern South Carolina, many producers focused on clearing debris from fields impacted by Hurricane Matthew with some limited small grains being planted. Pastures and livestock are in good condition with hay readily available. Winter vegetables had an excellent harvest. Average maximum temperatures ranged from the mid-60s in eastern South Carolina to the mid-50s in the west. Average minimum temperatures ranged from the mid-40s in the east to low 30s in west. Precipitation estimates for the month range from 6.10 inches in Bamberg to 2.0 inches in Anderson. SOUTH DAKOTA: Topsoil moisture 3% very short, 16% short, 79% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 4% very short, 22% short, 72% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 5% poor, 38% fair, 53% good, and 3% excellent. Stock water supplies 5% very short, 18% short, 74% adequate, 3% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very poor, 12% poor, 83% adequate, and 4% excellent. Cattle and calf conditions 0% very poor, 2% poor, 15% fair, 79% good, and 4% excellent. Cattle and calf death loss 0% heavy, 69% average, 31% light. Sheep and lamb condition 0% very poor, 4% poor, 18% fair, 75% good, and 3% excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss 0% heavy, 74% average, 26% light. Snow, wind, and ice impacted much of the State, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. A Christmas day blizzard left thousands without power across northeast, north central and western South Dakota. Southeast South Dakota received mostly rain as temperatures remained well above freezing. TENNESSEE: Days suitable 1.8. Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 8% short, 56% adequate, 35% surplus. Subsoil moisture 3% very short, 16% short, 63% adequate, 18% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 7% poor, 34% fair, 52% good, 6% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 24% very poor, 41% poor, 24% fair, 10% good, 1% excellent. Cattle condition 1% very poor, 7% poor, 41% fair, 44% good, 7% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 17% very short, 22% short, 58% adequate, 3% surplus. Tennessee experienced above normal temperatures and much needed rainfall in December which has helped improve livestock conditions and pasture conditions to some extent. However, pastures are being depleted quickly due the slow growth in the fall. Most operations in the State have begun feeding hay. Hay and roughage supplies are mostly adequate to fair, down significantly from last year at this time. Primary activities for the month include equipment maintenance, soil sampling, and purchasing seed and fertilizer. TEXAS: Precipitation throughout December was above normal across the State. Some areas of the Upper Coast, the Coastal Bend, and the Lower Valley received precipitation slightly above historic averages, however areas of Northeast Texas, the Blacklands, and the Cross Timbers recorded amounts well below normal. Parts of the Upper Coast and South East Texas observed up to 15 inches of rainfall, while the rest of the State received between .5 and 6 inches of precipitation. Some winter wheat suffered in dry areas of the State, while rainfall aided the growth of cool-season grasses in other areas. Across the State, producers continued to prepare cropland for spring planting. UTAH: Topsoil moisture 0% very short, 2% last year; 6% short, 8% last year; 84% adequate, 85% last year; 10% surplus, 5% last year. Subsoil moisture 3% very short, 9% last year; 14% short, 33% last year; 78% adequate, 58% last year; 5% surplus, 0% last year. Pasture and range condition 5% very poor, 2% last year; 10% poor, 11% last year; 40% fair, 34% last year; 43% good, 52% last year; 2% excellent, 1% last year. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 0% last year; 0% poor, 2% last year; 38% fair, 29% last year; 60% good, 55% last year; 2% excellent, 14% last year. Hay and roughage supplies 0% very short, 0% last year; 1% short, 0% last year; 66% adequate, 63% last year; 33% surplus year, 37% last year. Stock water supplies 0% very short, 8% last year; 10% short, 15% last year; 85% adequate, 77% last year; 5% surplus, 0% last year. Cattle and calves condition 0% very poor, 0% last year; 0% poor, 0% last year; 11% fair, 18% last year; 85% good, 71% last year; 4% excellent, 11% last year. Sheep and lambs condition 0% very poor, 0% last year; 1% poor, 0% last year; 22% fair, 20% last year; 75% good, 66% last year; 2% excellent, 14% last year. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for cattle 63%, and livestock receiving supplemental feed for sheep 58%. Cows calved at 1% complete. The northern and southwestern parts of the State saw the most precipitation over the last month, while the central southeastern region had very little. VIRGINIA: Barley conditions were 9% poor, 26% fair, 61% good, and 4% excellent. Oats conditions were 11% poor, 51% fair, and 38% good. Winter wheat conditions were 1% very poor, 7% poor, 30% fair, 55% good, and 7% excellent. Livestock conditions were 1% very poor, 7% poor, 32% fair, 54% good, and 6% excellent. Pasture and range conditions were 9% very poor, 33% poor, 25% fair, 28% good, and 5% excellent. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 25%. December was a relatively mild and warm for this time of year. Rains were welcomed and improved conditions on most farms. Still many farmers began feeding hay already as the rain was too late to improve the grazing conditions. Farm activities this month included conducting farm maintenance, soil sampling, and purchasing seeds and fertilizers. WASHINGTON: The winter started out both cold and wet, with snow in the mix. Temperatures dropped to as low as -14°F Fahrenheit in the northeast region, while the highest temperature was reported at 55°F Fahrenheit in the central region. Average temperatures were all below freezing, except in the west, for most of December. The highest reported precipitation was in the western region at 9.42 inches while the lowest reported precipitation was in the east central region at 0.18 inch. In the west, cold temperatures were met with some precipitation. The cold weather hindered Christmas tree farms earlier in the month, with lowland fields filled with standing water. The cold and wet weather slowed field work to a halt, impacting cranberry field progress and leaving late pumpkins to rot. Other farmers were concerned that the cold weather would damage the raspberries and blueberries. In the central and eastern regions, the winter weather change was well received with increased moisture and the cold coverage provided by the snow for the winter wheat. While the snow provided coverage, it was considered minimal. Two cold snaps were reported, but the snow provided some protection. Prior to the cold snaps, workers were able to make good progress pruning and training fruits, grapes, and hops. As a result, the preparations prevented or limited crop damage. With increased wind levels paired with the cold weather, work halted until conditions improved. Lastly, most livestock were placed on full feed due to winter conditions. WEST VIRGINIA: Topsoil moisture was 1% very short, 8% short, 73% adequate, and 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture was 1% very short, 15% short, 73% adequate, and 11% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies were 1% very short, 4% short, 94% adequate, and 1% surplus. Feed grain supplies were 1% short, 98% adequate, and 1% surplus. Winter wheat conditions were 14% poor, 48% fair, 30% good, and 8% excellent. Cattle and calves were 1% poor, 11% fair, 85% good, and 3% excellent. Sheep and lambs were 1% poor, 15% fair, 82% good, and 2% excellent. Weather this month has been a mix of fluctuating temperatures and precipitation forms including rain, snow and sleet. Farming activities for the month included preparing for winter weather and pruning deciduous tree fruits, except for peaches. WISCONSIN: December temperatures at the five major weather stations ranged from 0.7°F below normal to 2.9°F above normal. Average highs ranged from 25.2°F in Eau Claire to 31.5°F in Milwaukee, while average lows ranged from 13.2 to 20.1°F in those same cities. Precipitation ranged from 1.93 inches in Milwaukee to 2.25 inches in Green Bay. Green Bay received the most snowfall out of the major cities with 23.1 inches. Milwaukee received the least, with 18.8 inches of snow for the month. All five locations reported above average snowfall for December, but warm and rainy weather late in the month resulted in below average snow cover at all locations. Reporters expressed some concern about winter damage to winter wheat and alfalfa. By the end of the month almost all corn was harvested, though Northern and Central Wisconsin reported some still standing. Some producers were having issues finding storage for their crop. WYOMING: Topsoil moisture 11% very short, 42% short, 44% adequate, 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture 10% very short, 38% short, 52% adequate. Winter wheat condition 18% very poor, 22% poor, 40% fair, 16% good, 4% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 16% short, 76% adequate, 7% surplus. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 17% fair, 77% good, 2% excellent. Stock water supplies 14% very short, 14% short, 71% adequate, 1% surplus. Pasture and range condition 4% very poor, 18% poor, 34% fair, 44% good. Statistical Methodology Survey Procedures: Crop progress and condition estimates included in this report are based on survey data collected each week from early April through the end of November. Additionally, survey respondents are contacted four times during the winter season - once per month 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@nass.usda.gov Lance Honig, Chief, Crops Branch.................... (202) 720-2127 Anthony Prillaman, Head, Field Crops Section........ (202) 720-2127 Tony Dahlman - Oats, Soybeans.................. (202) 690-3234 Chris Hawthorn - Corn, Flaxseed, Proso Millet.. (202) 720-9526 James Johanson - County Estimates, Hay......... (202) 690-8533 Scott Matthews - Crop Weather, Barley.......... (202) 720-7621 Sammy Neal- Peanuts, Rice...................... (202) 720-7688 Jean Porter - Rye, Wheat....................... (202) 720-8068 Bianca Pruneda - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum... (202) 720-5944 Travis Thorson - Sunflower, Other Oilseeds..... (202) 720-7369 Access to NASS Reports For your convenience, you may access NASS reports and products the following ways: All reports are available electronically, at no cost, on the NASS web site: www.nass.usda.gov Both national and state specific reports are available via a free e- mail subscription. 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