Crop Progress - State Stories ISSN: 2470-9816 Released March 27, 2018, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ALABAMA: Total rainfall for the month ranged from 2.10 inches in Fayette County to 6.85 inches in Dekalb County. According to the U.S Drought Monitor, the percentage of the State in a moderate drought remained around 17 percent throughout March. Precipitation was generally below normal for the month. Cool season forage conditions were very good, pastures were looking good and hay supplies were adequate. Due to the cold and wet weather throughout the month of March, a couple of light freeze events had occurred that impacted some peach varieties. Winter wheat was looking good, and cool season pastures continued to green up. Isolated hail and tornado events occurred in the northern part of the State that affected some winter wheat acreage. Some land was tilled, cotton stalks were mowed down, and cover crops were looking good. Fieldwork was delayed in some areas due to wet conditions. Some fertilizer spread on ryegrass and some corn was planted. Livestock was in good condition. ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE ARIZONA: For the week ending March 25, 11 of the 50 weather stations reported some precipitation, with Mohave and Prescott reporting the least at 0.01 inch while Pipe Springs reported the most at 0.31 inch. Thirty-two of the 50 weather stations reported above normal temperatures during the week. The highest temperature during the week was 93°F at Robson Ranch. The lowest temperature during the week was 13°F at Window Rock. By the end of the month, cotton planting was 20 percent complete, compared to 10 percent the previous year. Thirty-three percent of barley has headed compared with 24 percent the previous year. Barley conditions were rated mostly fair to good. A hundred percent of durum wheat had emerged, and 30 percent of durum wheat has headed compared with 19 percent the previous year. Durum wheat conditions were rated mostly good to excellent. Alfalfa conditions were rated mostly good to excellent, depending on location, with harvesting taking place on almost three-quarters of the alfalfa acreage across the State. For the entire State, pasture and range conditions were rated mostly poor to fair. ARKANSAS: The month of March was a mix of wet and mild weather. Some producers have begun planting corn and rice. With more heavy rain in the forecast, many farmers are waiting to work their ground or to plant. Winter wheat began to head for many fields and much of the crop was in fair to good condition. Forages were just beginning to recover and grow from the fall drought and February flooding. Hay stocks were low because of this. Livestock conditions were fair. CALIFORNIA: For the week ending March 25, topsoil moisture was 5 percent short, 50 percent adequate, and 45 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 5 percent short, 50 percent adequate, and 45 percent surplus. Pasture and range condition was 25 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 30 percent good, and 5 percent excellent. Multiple storm systems moved through California through the Pineapple Express, carrying moisture from the Pacific. The early part of the month saw snow in the mountains, with hail in some areas of the North and Northern Coast. The middle of the month saw cooler than average temperatures for much of the State, as weather systems continued to bring rain to southwestern California and the Central Valley, in addition to snow in the mountains from 1500 to 2000 ft. An upper level trough brought additional rain in the final part of the month, as much of the State continued to experience below normal or near normal temperatures, with intermittent showers at lower elevations and additional snow above 1500 ft. COLORADO: For the week ending March 25, topsoil moisture was 24 percent very short, 39 percent short, and 37 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was 14 percent very short, 29 percent short, and 57 percent adequate. Barley planted was 1 percent, compared with 4 percent the previous year. Spring wheat other than durum planted was 1 percent, compared with 3 percent the previous year. Winter wheat pastured was 9 percent, unchanged from the previous year; condition was 5 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 31 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Cows calved was 39 percent, compared with 50 percent 2017. For the week ending March 25, ewes lambed was 37 percent, 33 percent the previous year. Livestock condition was 1 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 68 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Cattle death loss was 77 percent average and 23 percent light. Sheep death loss was 35 percent average and 65 percent light. Pasture and range condition was 15 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 30 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Feed and concentrate supplies were 1 percent very short, 16 percent short, 78 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Soil moisture supplies improved slightly during March due to scattered moisture, but Statewide a lack of moisture was the primary concern going into the growing season. Reporters in eastern and northeastern counties noted some areas received timely moisture, aiding pasture and dryland crop conditions, while others remained dry. There were reports some wheat blew out and several wheat fields had bare spots due to winter kill and dry, windy conditions. Southwestern counties remained in extreme drought, with southern counties impacted the most. Recent precipitation in areas helped topsoil moisture and fall planted wheat condition, but subsoil moisture remained limited. In the San Luis Valley, reporters noted fieldwork began and some growers started irrigating a week early. Conditions were dry with no measureable precipitation received during March. Reporters in southeastern counties noted isolated moisture was received, but warm and windy conditions prevailed. Statewide, livestock were doing well, with calving and lambing progressing better than normal due to mild weather. As of March 26, 2018, Statewide snowpack was 73 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. DELAWARE: For the month of March, the maximum registered temperature was 57°F (recorded in Georgetown and Wilmington, DE) and the minimum was 23°F (recorded in Wilmington). Instances of precipitation ranged from 7 to 14 days across the State with a maximum total of 4.42 inches of precipitation for the reporting period. According to reporter comments, prevailing cold, snowy, and windy weather conditions prevented fieldwork. As a result, crop preparation and planting was minimal to none. Activities for the month included spreading manure to fields, repairing and cleaning up equipment, purchasing supplies, tax documentation, and attending workshops as usual. FLORIDA: Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.2 inch in multiple counties to 7.6 inches in Washington County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 12 percent of the State was in a moderate drought by month's end, up 5 percentage points from the beginning of March. Average temperatures were as much as 6°F below normal for the month. Due to a few frosts and limited rain in numerous counties, pasture condition remained poor to fair throughout the month, and producers fed supplements to cattle. Cattle condition was fair to good. By the middle of the month, producers in the Panhandle were harvesting hay and baleage. Other fieldwork included planting field corn and preparing cropland for other plantings. Sugarcane producers continued harvesting their crop throughout the month. Vegetable growers prepared land for and began planting spring crops. A wide range of winter produce came to market, including blueberries, boniatos, cabbage, eggplant, green beans, herbs, leafy greens, malangas, peppers, squash, sweet corn, and tomatoes. Citrus grove operations were normal for this time of year. Tangerines and tangelos were harvested throughout the month. Grapefruit harvesting continued, with a slightly larger amount going to processing plants than fresh markets. Valencia harvesting was in full swing by the end of the month. GEORGIA: Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.7 inch in Camden County to 7.4 inches in White County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 50 percent of the State was in a moderate to severe drought by month's end, up 23 percentage points from the beginning of March. Average temperatures were slightly below normal for the month. Small grains, pastures, and hayfields were in good condition overall. Early warm temperatures in February brought on a flush of perennial and annual forage growth followed by a cold snap that set progress back in March. Pest pressure was low to moderate overall. Livestock condition was good. Hay quantities were sufficient. Onions remained in good condition. Strawberries began to ripen and producers harvested a few fields. Early-season peaches were significantly damaged by freezes, and mid-season peaches saw mild to moderate damage. Likewise, blueberries experienced moderate damage and crop loss. Field activities included burning down cover crops, tilling, applying nutrients and herbicides on forages, and processing soil and litter samples. Laying plastic for watermelons and other produce commodities was mostly completed by the end of the month. Corn planting began in some counties, but was delayed by cold, wet weather in other counties. HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE IDAHO: The average weather in March felt cooler than normal. Average temperature differences ranged from 6°F below normal to 2°F above normal. The highest temperature recorded this month was 72°F in Lewiston, and the lowest temperature was -2°F in Picabo. Days with precipitation ranged from 4 to 17 days across the state. The highest precipitation recorded for March was 4.14 inches at Lava Hot and the lowest precipitation was 0.064 inch in Grand View. March started off very nice. Snow was reported over the last weekend of the month, but nothing stuck to the ground. Some off and on snow conditions delayed fieldwork. Spring calving continued. Evening temperatures at or near freezing, preventing planting activities. Continued rains hampered spring field work and planting. Some potato growers were parked on field edges, but they were not rolling yet. Snow was still on much of the Valley floor. Some flooding started in creeks and ditches due to rain and rapid snow melt. ILLINOIS: Statewide, the average temperature in March was 37.5°F, 2.2°F below normal. Precipitation averaged 2.36 inches for the month, 0.01 inch below the normal. Topsoil moisture was 2 percent very short, 5 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 21 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 2 very short, 17 percent short, 74 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 5 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 32 percent fair, 50 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Primary activities during the month included livestock care, fertilizing, and equipment maintenance. INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of March was 6 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 30 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month of March was 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 25 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition for the month of March rated 2 percent very poor, 7 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Statewide temperatures averaged 36.3°F, 3.1°F below normal for the month of March. Statewide average precipitation was 1.95 inches, 0.64 inch below normal. March saw cold and dry weather return to much of the State after the flooding events of the previous month, with precipitation mostly confined to the beginning and end of the month and to certain areas of the State. Flood waters have mostly receded and cleanup has begun. Some fields remained underwater for several weeks and damage to winter wheat, cover crops, and pasture has been reported. Many fields remain saturated. Fields in the less affected areas have all but dried up with reports of cover crops breaking dormancy. Field activities were underway in the drier areas, including spring fertilizer and lime applications, topdressing of nitrogen on winter wheat, spring tillage, and tile maintenance. Livestock were reported to be in good condition with spring calving season in full swing. Hay inventory levels were reported as more than adequate in some areas, while other areas reported low inventory concerns. Other activities for the month included hauling manure, preparing equipment and fields for planting, hauling grain to elevators, finishing tax preparation, and enrolling acres in the ARC/PLC programs with FSA. IOWA: Iowa experienced fluctuating temperatures and sporadic precipitation in March. Wet, heavy snow the third week of the month left fields and roads soft and muddy, and delayed the seasonal rise in soil temperatures. Some manure and fertilizer was applied and there were a few reports of oats being seeded, but Statewide little fieldwork was done. Grain movement was brisk in much of the State, until slowed by snow. Calving and lambing continued but snow and muddy conditions caused some difficulties. Fluctuations in temperatures challenged livestock producers. KANSAS: For the week ending March 25, 2018, there were 4.8 days suitable for field work. Topsoil moisture was 35 percent very short, 34 percent short, 30 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 30 percent very short, 42 percent short, 28 percent adequate, and 0 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 15 percent very poor, 34 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 12 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. KENTUCKY: Kentucky saw below normal temperatures and precipitation during the month of March. Temperatures for the period averaged 42°F across the State which was 4°F cooler than normal. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 3.06 inches Statewide which was 0.51 inch below normal and 86 percent of normal. Topsoil moisture was rated as 44 percent adequate and 56 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated as 58 percent adequate and 42 percent surplus. Winter storms occurred periodically during March, leading to accumulations, but with temperatures fluctuating above freezing, significant snow totals did not remain for long. During times of heavy snowfall, some damage occurred due to trees falling and related power outages. Persistent wet weather delayed fieldwork, including fertilizer, herbicide, and burndown applications. Winter wheat condition was reported as 2 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 16 percent excellent. Cooler temperatures slowed growth on pastures and hay fields. Additionally, muddy conditions have extended hay feeding and some cattle producers are running short on hay. Hay and roughage supplies were reported as 5 percent very short, 20 percent short, 68 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. The condition of livestock were reported as 2 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 18 percent fair, 68 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Farmers continued to work on equipment and perform routine maintenance in preparation for spring planting. LOUISIANA: The month of March was a mixture of wet and dry conditions. Dry conditions allowed for good progress in rice planting and sugarcane fieldwork. Sugarcane emergence was better that expected. Sugarcane herbicide and fertilizer was applied to fields. Pasture conditions were slow to rebound after being saturated for an extended period of time during late winter. Cattle herds struggled to pick up weight as forages were slow growing. Fruit and other trees were planted. Vegetables had ideal conditions as temperatures were great with lots of sunshine. The crawfish catch is mixed but improved in recent days with sunshine and spring like conditions. MARYLAND: For the month of March, the maximum registered temperature was 65°F (recorded in Cumberland, MD) and the minimum was 7°F (recorded in Sines Deep Creek, MD). Instances of precipitation ranged from 3 to 9 days across the State with a maximum total of 3.04 inches of precipitation for the reporting period. Both topsoil moisture and subsoil moisture were reportedly in a surplus or adequate amount across most of the State. While activities this month included spreading manure and fertilizing small grain crops, late heavy snowfall and rain storms have prevented recent fieldwork. According to reporter comments, cover crops, small grains, and winter wheat look good overall, although cooler than average temperatures have slowed growth. These temperatures also kept fruit trees from blooming early, thus preventing frost or freeze damage. MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture for the month of March was 13 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 23 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month of March was 10 percent short, 68 percent adequate, and 22 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition for the month of March was 1 percent very poor, 4 percent poor, 29 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Cold nights and warm days were frequent throughout the month of March. The ground was still frozen in many areas. The month began with above normal temperatures, but wrapped up with below normal temperatures. Winter wheat was slowly breaking dormancy, but some winter damage was reported in the southern areas of the State. Some sugarbeets have already been planted. Producers were pruning trees and spreading fertilizer. MINNESOTA: March saw a mix of rain, snow, clouds, and wind throughout the month. Overall, weather conditions near the end of March trended towards cooler and drier than normal. The preliminary Statewide average temperature for the month was 0.1°F below average at 27.7°F. The preliminary Statewide average precipitation was 0.37 inch below normal at 0.83 inch; however, Northwest, West Central, and Southwest Minnesota had greater than normal precipitation. Snow cover remained throughout much of the State, although melt is occurred with reports of standing water in fields in some areas. The freezing and thawing cycles throughout the month were reported as a concern for forage crops. Reported activities included manure application and equipment preparation. Livestock producers continued calving and lambing activities. The winter was generally good for livestock, but muddy conditions are currently widespread. MISSISSIPPI: According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the State has officially recovered from the slight drought it experienced last month. Most producers are now wanting drier weather to allow for fieldwork and planting preparations. During mid-month, most field conditions were still too wet for any significant fieldwork. Signs of cool season forages were greening up, but growth remained slow. Towards the end of the month, sporadic to little rainfall was received as the State estimated a total of 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending March 25. Some producers reported muddy conditions and little to no field activity, while others were finally getting enough dry weather to fertilize or spray for weeds. There was still not much planting activity however, due to cool and damp soils in most areas. Corn lead planted crops with an estimated 28 percent planted. MISSOURI: For the week ending March 25, topsoil moisture was 8 percent very short, 13 percent short, 59 percent adequate, and 20 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 9 percent very short, 23 percent short, 58 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Hay and roughage supplies were 8 percent very short, 28 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Stock water supplies were 4 percent very short, 13 percent short, 82 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 1 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 50 percent fair, 38 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Conditions overall for the month were generally dry with some areas receiving rainfall towards the end of the month. The majority of the precipitation occurred in the western half of the State. Livestock producers in the Northwest part of the State were having to buy hay due to dry conditions. Other parts of the State have also reported a shortage of hay to buy. Dry areas are waiting for rainfall before April planting. MONTANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of March was 2 percent very short, 12 percent short, 52 percent adequate, and 34 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 11 percent very short, 21 percent short, 50 percent adequate, and 18 percent surplus. For the month of March, winter wheat - wind damage was 85 percent none, 14 percent light, 1 percent moderate, and 0 percent heavy. Winter wheat - freeze and drought damage was 82 percent none, 13 percent light, 4 percent moderate, 1 percent heavy for the month. Winter wheat - protectiveness of snow cover for the month was 10 percent very poor, 13 percent poor, 12 percent fair, 27 percent good, and 38 percent excellent. Livestock grazing accessibility for the month of March was 16 percent open, 27 percent difficult, and 57 percent closed. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for the month was as follows - cattle and calves 98 percent fed, compared with 91 percent the previous year. Livestock receiving supplemental feed - sheep and lambs 100 percent fed, compared with 92 percent the previous year. Low temperatures and wet conditions were widespread throughout Montana for the month of March. Topsoil moisture conditions were 86 percent adequate to surplus which is below the previous year's 93 percent. Subsoil moisture conditions were 68 percent adequate to surplus which is below the previous year's 87 percent. The high temperature for the month was recorded in Yellowtail at 68°F. The low temperature for the month was recorded in Brockway at -16°F. Reporters in northwestern areas of the State welcomed mild temperatures, but that was not the case in the rest of the State. Cold, wet conditions in north-central Montana made for difficult lambing and calving conditions as there was no dry land on which to deliver. Central areas of the State experienced flooding which delayed shipments of seed potatoes and hay. The northeast area of the State however, remained concerned about drought as the northern most counties had not received as much snow cover as the rest of the State. Reporters noted little to no wind or frost damage on the winter wheat crop, but were hoping that the crop is not yet breaking dormancy under the snow cover. Winter freeze and wind damage to winter wheat remained low with 82 percent of reporters observing no freeze or drought damage, and 85 percent reporting no wind damage. Winter wheat snow coverage for the State was rated 65 percent good to excellent compared with 13 percent at this time the previous year. Winter wheat condition is rated 65 percent good to excellent, compared with 62 percent the previous year. Grazing accessibility was limited with 57 percent of grazing lands reported as inaccessible or closed, and 27 percent rated as difficult. Livestock producers were providing supplemental feed at a slightly higher rate than the previous year, with 98 percent of cattle being fed, compared to 91 percent at this time the previous year, and 100 percent of sheep being fed, compared to 92 percent at this time the previous year. NEBRASKA: For the entire month of March 2018, topsoil moisture measured at 4 percent very short, 19 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 8 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 5 percent very short, 26 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. For the entire month of March 2018, winter wheat condition rated 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. NEVADA: For the week ending March 25, topsoil moisture was 5 percent very short, 15 percent short, 75 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 10 percent very short, 15 percent short, and 75 percent adequate. Pasture and range condition was 5 percent very poor, 15 percent poor, 60 percent fair, and 20 percent good. Northern Nevada received rain and snow in the latter half of the month, with Winnemucca receiving 11.5 inches of snow on March 16. Alfalfa started to green in some locations, and winter wheat was progressing and sprouting leaves 3-4 inches long. Rangeland and meadow conditions improved with the rain, and livestock were moved to spring rangeland. The calving season drew to a close. NEW ENGLAND: Regional monthly temperatures ranged from 3°F below to 4°F above normal from historical averages. Monthly precipitation ranged from 0.54 to 7.08 inches throughout the region. The weather varied greatly in New England States, with four Nor'easter storms bringing heavy winds and large amounts of rain and snow. Some reports indicated the Nor'easter storms brought as much as 27 inches of snow and wind gusts reaching 20-50 miles per hour. Operations along the coastline had more wind and snow damage than operations inland. Farmers spent much of March clearing driveways and repairing farm structures. Temperatures during the day were warmer, while temperatures at night were below freezing for much of the month. The mixed temperatures caused snow to melt during the day and ice to form during the night. The four storms delayed the emergence of cranberry plants. Orchardists began pruning apple and peach trees. The colder weather at night reduced sugar content for maple producers, but growers were optimistic that the warmer days brought better yields. Operations spent much of their time on maintenance and marketing arrangements. NEW JERSEY: While there were some warmer days in the low 60's, low temperatures continued to be in the teens and 20's across New Jersey. As March began, soil in the northern parts of the State were too soggy for field work. In South Jersey, areas dry enough for field work were spotty. Some farmers fertilized but others thought it was too early. Vineyards were half way through winter pruning and vegetable growers were transplanting cool season vegetables into high tunnels. Then four straight Nor'easters in three weeks put over two feet of snow melt on and in the soil. Cold and wet weather has delayed spring planting of leafy greens. Greenhouses were full of plants ready to transplant, but wintry weather caused delays. NEW MEXICO: The following is for the entire month of March. Topsoil moisture was 44 percent very short, 48 percent short, and 8 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture was 20 percent very short, 55 percent short, 24 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Chile planted was 16 percent, compared to 22 percent the previous year. Onions planted was 52 percent, compared to 33 percent the previous year. Alfalfa hay condition was 1 percent poor, 61 percent fair, 35 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Winter wheat condition was 8 percent very poor, 62 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 5 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Cows calved was 25 percent, compared to 17 percent in February, and 15 percent the previous year. Cattle receiving supplemental feed was 91 percent, compared with 91 percent in February, and 78 percent the previous year. Cattle condition was 3 percent very poor, 5 percent poor, 51 percent fair, 36 percent good, and 5 percent excellent. Ewes lambed was 25 percent, compared with 15 percent in February, and 15 percent the previous year. Sheep receiving supplemental feed was 78 percent, compared with 73 percent in February, and 72 percent the previous year. Sheep and lambs condition was 21 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 42 percent good, and 2 percent excellent. Hay and roughage supplies were reported as 3 percent very short, 37 percent short, 58 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus, compared with 4 percent very short, 22 percent short, 71 percent adequate, 3 percent surplus in February. Stock water supplies were reported as 23 percent very short, 24 percent short, 52 percent adequate, 1 percent surplus, compared with 19 percent very short, 39 percent short, 41 percent adequate, 1 percent surplus in February. Warm, windy, and dry weather persisted across much of New Mexico during the first 25 days of March. Precipitation totaled less than 25 percent or normal throughout the eastern half of the State. According to the United States Drought Monitor released on March 22, ninety-nine percent of the State was categorized as abnormally dry or worse, with 25.6 percent, 52.3 percent, and 20.8 percent experiencing extreme, moderate, or severe drought, respectively. Comments from numerous counties conveyed a dire need for substantial moisture as high winds were quickly drying soils, and fire danger continued to worsen. In fact, fires in Union County were reported to have burned approximately 20,000 acres. It was also noted that corn producers in Union County were beginning to cultivate their fields; however, they anticipated planting less corn acreage due to the lack of moisture. Precipitation was reported at 28 out of 45 weather stations, although total accumulations were below normal. Average temperatures ranged from -3°F below normal to 5°F above normal. Daytime highs varied from 53°F at Angel Fire to 90°F at Artesia and Carlsbad. Overnight lows ranged from -3°F at El Vado Dam to 29°F at Truth or Consequences. Supplemental feeding continued, with a larger percentage of the cattle herd being fed this year due to lesser quality wheat pastures and native feedstuffs. Livestock producers were also hauling more water to their herds. Despite the poor pasture conditions and lessening hay supply, producers were trying to maintain their herd numbers because of a depressed market. NEW YORK: The early part of the month of March experienced continued cold, wet, and icy conditions, making some ground saturated and muddy. Winter snow coverage was very good in some areas without any reported crop damage. Maple sap flow was encouraged by a second thaw. Fruit trees were still dormant. Some chemicals were applied and some cover crop frost seeding occurred. Long Island continued tying vines. NORTH CAROLINA: For the week ending March 25. Topsoil moisture was 5 percent short, 52 percent adequate, and 43 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 6 percent short, 58 percent adequate, and 36 percent surplus. Barley condition was 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 40 percent fair, 48 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Hay and roughage supplies were 4 percent very short, 20 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. Oats condition was 1 percent very poor, 1 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 78 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Pasture and range condition was 2 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 43 percent fair, 46 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Winter wheat condition was 1 percent poor, 31 percent fair, 62 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. The month of March was cold, wet, and windy. These conditions limited field preparations. Tobacco farmers waited for some dry weather to start preparing fields for planting in April. Fertilizer was still spread on small grain fields and herbicides were sprayed in preparation for corn planting. Most small grains were maturing well, even with the wet conditions. Some growers were late with nitrogen applications, but there were enough dry conditions for the growers to catch up. Tobacco greenhouses were in good shape, with few problems reported so far. Wheat, hay fields, and pastures benefited from the 2 inches or more of rain received this past week and everything is turning green. Pastures are green, but growing slowly. NORTH DAKOTA: For the month of March 2018, topsoil moisture rated 13 percent very short, 31 percent short, 54 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture rated 13 percent very short, 36 percent short, 49 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 3 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 53 percent fair, 32 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Cattle and calf conditions were 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 17 percent fair, 71 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Cattle and calf death loss was 4 percent heavy, 59 percent average, and 37 percent light. Calving progress was 33 percent. Sheep and lamb conditions were 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 70 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss was 2 percent heavy, 52 percent average, and 46 percent light. Lambing progress was 59 percent. Hay and roughage supplies were 10 percent very short, 28 percent short, 60 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Stock water supplies were 6 percent very short, 27 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. OHIO: Topsoil moisture for the month was 2 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 28 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was, 2 percent short, 69 percent adequate, 29 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition for the month was rated 1 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 63 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. The March 2018 Statewide average temperature was 34.2 degrees, 4.1 degrees below normal. Precipitation averaged 1.67 inches Statewide, which was 0.72 inch below normal for the month of March. Despite receiving more snow accumulation than normal this month, below average temperatures and below average precipitation created fieldwork opportunities during the month. There were reports of topdressing wheat fields, manure hauling, fertilizer spreading, ditch and tile work while the weather was dry. Winter wheat remains in good condition while colder than usual temperatures continue to keep the crop dormant. Pastures had a chance to dry out this month but are still behind normal development. OKLAHOMA: Precipitation totals for the month were less than half an inch across the State with the exception of the North Central and Southeast districts. As of March 25th, the Statewide average precipitation for the full month of March was 0.29 of an inch. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 35 percent of the State was in the extreme to exceptional drought categories, up 32 points from the previous year and 42 percent of the State was in the severe to exceptional drought categories, down 4 points from the previous year. Statewide temperatures averaged in the mid 50's, with the lowest recording of 19°F at Hooker on Tuesday, March 20th and the highest recording of 95°Fat Beaver on Friday, March 23rd. Topsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly adequate to very short and subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly very short to short. OREGON: The Statewide temperature differential for the month of March ranged from 5°F below to 2°F above normal. A low temperature was reported at minus 3°F in the South Central region. A high temperature was reported at 75°F in the Southwestern region. March brought much needed moisture and slightly cooler temperatures to much of the State. The last few weeks in March also brought heavy rain to much of the State. Oregon will exit the 2018 winter with less than average snowpack. However, most water storage reservoirs across Oregon remained in decent shape. There were no reports of crop damage. Days suitable for field work dropped in March coinciding with the heavy rains. The northern Coastal region observed continued grass growth and seed crops progressed well. Most crop and seed fields received spot spraying and fertilizer. Higher vole populations prompted baiting. Both the North Central and Northwestern regions planted a fair amount spring wheat in March. Winter wheat came through the winter in good condition. Southwestern Oregon received a lot of rain in mid to late March. The wet conditions hampered fieldwork and made most bottoms too wet for livestock. Bloom for plums and peaches finished up with only a few good days for pollination. Other fruit trees, such as apple and pear, were in the pre-pink stage. Wine grape vineyards started bud swell. Blueberry crop was close to bud break. Most field spraying was put on hold waiting for dryer weather. In the Southeastern region, the rain and late snow were welcome in a region that is 20-30 percent below average in snowpack. Many cattle producers were still calving. PENNSYLVANIA: March has been an interesting weather month. Temperatures ranged from a high of 67°F to a low of 8°F. The month started with windy conditions and colder temperatures. There were also fair amounts of rainfall and cloudy days. More windy days helped to dry off field conditions during the middle of month. Snowfall amounts range from 8 to 15 inches throughout the State. A lot of that melted when the sunshine came out and temperatures warmed to 44°F. Producers were busy hauling manure when conditions permitted and topdressing small grains. Wheat and cover crops were greening up. Fruit crops started the budding process. SOUTH CAROLINA: Total rainfall for the month ranged from no rain in Berkeley County to 5.26 inches in Anderson County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the State was 69 percent abnormally dry, a decrease from the 54 percent this time last month. Average mean temperature for the month ranged from 47°F to 54°F. As spring weather progresses, producers began to plant corn. Strawberries ripened and some were already being harvested. Hay and grazing land turned green and were ready for a timely first cutting. Cool temperatures and winds pushed back some spring planting of tomatoes and other warm season crops. Corn was being planted at a good pace. Small grains, livestock, and winter grazing were in good shape. SOUTH DAKOTA: The following conditions were reported for the month of March; topsoil moisture was 8 percent very short, 28 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 19 percent very short, 30 percent short, 51 percent adequate, and 0 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 3 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 59 percent fair, 21 percent good, and 0 percent excellent. TENNESSEE: For week ending March 25, 2018, there were 2.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture was 1 percent short, 41 percent adequate, and 58 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 2 percent short, 46 percent adequate, and 52 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 33 percent fair, 51 percent good, and 12 percent excellent. Pasture and Range condition was 2 percent very poor, 12 percent poor, 38 percent fair, 45 percent good, and 3 percent excellent. Cattle condition was 4 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 62 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Hay and roughage supplies were 2 percent very short, 19 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 9 percent surplus. Heavy rains in Tennessee during March left much of the State with soft, soggy fields, delaying field work on row crops. In drier areas, limited corn planting began and some pastures were fertilized. In wetter areas, farmers waited for fields to dry out before resuming field work so as not to mar the fields. In the western region, some farmers have sprayed burndowns and spread lime, and some have applied top-dress nitrogen to wheat, which generally looks good. Two consecutive nights below freezing in the eastern region of the State have held some plant growth back. Pasture and range condition was mostly fair to good. Cattle condition was mostly good. Hay and roughage supplies were mostly adequate. TEXAS: Weather was mostly dry and warm during March. The eastern part of the State received between 2 and 8 inches of rain. Rainfall in the rest of the State ranged from trace amounts to 2 inches. According to the US Drought Monitor, the Plains area was in extreme drought conditions, while many areas of the western, southern, and central parts of the State were between moderate to severe drought conditions. Small grains continued to suffer in areas with drought. Producers were planting sorghum and corn were conditions allowed. Cotton producers started field work in preparations for the upcoming season. UTAH: This report is for the entire month of March. Topsoil moisture was 3 percent very short, 28 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 10 percent very short, 27 percent short, 63 percent adequate, and 0 percent surplus. Pasture and range condition was 4 percent very poor, 24 percent poor, 42 percent fair, 30 percent good, and 0 percent excellent. Winter wheat condition was 2 percent very poor, 14 percent poor, 56 percent fair, 24 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Hay and roughage supplies were 2 percent very short, 3 percent short, 81 percent adequate, and 14 percent surplus. Stock water supplies were 6 percent very short, 24 percent short, 70 percent adequate, and 0 percent surplus. Cattle and calves condition was 0 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 69 percent good, and 10 percent excellent. Sheep and lambs condition was 0 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 24 percent fair, 66 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Cattle receiving supplemental feed was 82 percent, compared with 68 percent the previous year. Sheep receiving supplemental feed was 66 percent, compared with 79 percent the previous year. Cows calved was 40 percent, compared with 28 percent the previous year. Ewes lambed-farm flock was 36 percent, compared with 25 percent the previous year. Ewes lambed-range flock was 5 percent, compared with 5 percent the previous year. Utah saw some moisture over the last few weeks, but snowpack levels remain well below normal. Box Elder Country reported spring storms brought much needed moisture over the past two weeks and planting started for oats and a few onions. Cache County reported wet conditions slowed planting, but calving and lambing proceeded well. Sevier County reported drought conditions persisted. Beaver County reported recent storms helped soil moisture, but snowpack remains just over 50 percent of normal. Iron County reported soil moisture improvement with the spring storms. VIRGINIA: For week ending March 25, 2018, there were 2.8 days suitable for field work. Topsoil moisture was 3 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 30 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 12 percent short, 78 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 4 percent poor, 16 percent fair, 71 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Barley condition was 8 percent poor, 21 percent fair, 64 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Livestock condition was 1 percent very poor, 6 percent poor, 28 percent fair, 58 percent good, and 7 percent excellent. Pasture and Range condition was 8 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 39 percent fair, 32 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Hay supplies were 3 percent very short, 25 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Percent of feed obtained from pastures was 9 percent. Virginia experienced varied precipitation and below normal temperatures in March. Cooler than normal temperatures and a few snow events slowed grass growth and delayed spring crops. Hay and roughage supplies are mostly short to adequate. Primary activities for the month included preparing equipment for planting, applying lime, fertilizer, and manure, and topdressing small grains. WASHINGTON: The Statewide temperature differential for the month of March ranged from 4°F below to 2°F above normal. A low temperature was reported at 10°F in the Northeast region. A high temperature was reported at 74°F in the Western region. Washington had a normal March in terms of moisture and average temperature. Snow accumulation looked good in the Cascades and northern Columbia River basin of Washington and British Columbia. Water storage reservoirs across Washington were in decent shape as well. There were no reports of crop damage so far this winter. Several berry producers in western Washington were waiting to see how much damage the cold week in February may have done to their crops. In the Western region, days suitable for fieldwork were held back due to wet conditions. Livestock operations continued feeding. Raspberry producers pruned canes. Some strawberry acreage was planted. Tree fruit buds continued to swell. Most dormant pruning and spraying was complete. In the Central region, cold temperatures prevailed in the night. Calving continued with normal mortality reported. Some fruit growers used frost prevention measures and some pear growers sprayed their orchards with clay product to repel insects. Fruit trees in the more temperate regions of the Columbia Gorge were already in bloom. In east central Washington, field tillage continued and some planting began. Spring grain seeding began in several counties. Winter wheat condition looked good. WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending March 25, there were 2.3 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture was 9 percent short, 71 percent adequate and 20 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 83 percent adequate, and 9 percent surplus. Hay and roughage supplies were 7 percent short, 85 percent adequate, and 8 percent surplus. Feed grain supplies were 12 percent short and 88 percent adequate. Winter wheat condition was 1 percent poor, 36 percent fair, 54 percent good, and 9 percent excellent. Pasture condition was 16 percent poor, 37 percent fair, 41 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. Cattle and calves condition was 2 percent poor, 25 percent fair, 67 percent good, and 6 percent excellent. Calving was 59 percent complete, compared with 55 percent last year. Sheep and lambs condition was 2 percent poor, 22 percent fair, 71 percent good, and 5 percent excellent. Lambing was 64 percent complete compared with 60 percent last year. The month had abnormal weather patterns bringing a mix of rain, snow, and ice. Field conditions were muddy. Farming activities for the month included calving, lambing, and pruning fruit trees. WISCONSIN: March temperatures at the five major weather stations ranged from 1.4°F below normal to 0.6°F above normal. Average highs ranged from 37.9°F in Eau Claire to 44.7°F in La Crosse, while average lows ranged from 19.2°F in Eau Claire to 27.3°F in Milwaukee. Precipitation averaged from 0.18 inch in Milwaukee to 0.60 inch in La Crosse. La Crosse received the most snowfall out of the major cities with 6.1 inches. Madison received the least, with 3.4 inches of snow. There is still snow cover in the northern parts of the State, but snow melt across the State was slow and steady in March. Uneven snow cover over the winter has some concerned about winterkill on alfalfa. Some farmers started spreading manure and fertilizer. The warm days and cold nights have been ideal for maple sap flow. WYOMING: These ratings are for the month of March 2018. Topsoil moisture was 5 percent very short, 24 percent short, 64 percent adequate, and 7 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture was 9 percent very short, 32 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 8 percent very poor, 16 percent poor, 43 percent fair, 29 percent good, and 4 percent excellent. Barley planted was 1 percent, compared to 5 percent the previous year. Hay and roughage supplies were 10 percent very short, 10 percent short, 75 percent adequate, 5 percent surplus. Livestock condition was 1 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 83 percent good, and 1 percent excellent. Stock water supplies were 2 percent very short, 13 percent short, and 85 percent adequate. Pasture and range condition was 6 percent very poor, 18 percent poor, 44 percent fair, 32 percent good. Cows calved was 21 percent, compared to 18 percent the previous year. Ewes lambed was 17 percent, compared to 16 percent the previous year. Sheep shorn was 30 percent, compared to 20 percent the previous year. Barley planting began this month. Winter wheat condition was mostly fair to good and pasture and range was rated mostly fair to good. Temperatures were warmer than normal for most of the State and precipitation levels were mostly below average. 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@nass.usda.gov Lance Honig, Chief, Crops Branch.................... (202) 720-2127 Anthony Prillaman, Head, Field Crops Section........ (202) 720-2127 Chris Hawthorn - Corn, Flaxseed, Proso Millet.. (202) 720-9526 James Johanson - County Estimates, Hay......... (202) 690-8533 Jeff Lemmons - Oats, Soybeans.................. (202) 690-3234 Sammy Neal - Peanuts, Rice..................... (202) 720-7688 Joshua O'Rear - Crop Weather, Barley........... (202) 720-7621 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. To set-up this free subscription, visit www.nass.usda.gov and click on "National" or "State" in upper right corner above "search" box to create an account and select the reports you would like to receive. For more information on NASS surveys and reports, call the NASS Agricultural Statistics Hotline at (800) 727-9540, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET, or e-mail: nass@nass.usda.gov. 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