Crop Progress - State Stories ISSN: Released February 2, 2016, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ALABAMA: Temperatures in January were generally in line with expected ranges, with some reports of temperatures slightly warmer than normal. Moderate to heavy rainfall was reported throughout much of the state, but no reports of significant flooding. The wet weather did present some farmers with difficulties in winter wheat planting and hay feeding. There were also some reports of rain related soil erosion. The wheat crops that have already been planted were progressing well and were reported to be in fair to good condition. Some farms in the southern part of Alabama reported some cotton and peanut harvesting activities in January, and a few reported leaving crops unharvested due to the rainfall. Livestock and pastures were reported as being in fair to good condition. Precipitation estimates for the month ranged from 1.71 inches in Bessemer to 6.30 inches in Mobile. Average mean temperatures for the month ranged from 37.6°F in Moulton to 49.1°F in Mobile. ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE ARIZONA: The State experienced significant rain the first week of the year resulting in all but 19 of the 50 weather stations with above normal precipitation by the end of the month. Temperatures across Arizona were mostly below normal for the first two weeks of January and mostly above normal the last two weeks. The temperature extremes for January were a high of 84°F in Sahuarita and a low of -9°F at the Grand Canyon. Paloma finished the month with the highest percent above normal precipitation at 276 percent and Roll finished the lowest with 16 percent of normal precipitation. Alfalfa harvesting had occurred on at least seventy percent of the planted acres. Barley planted was 75 percent complete and Durum wheat planted was 70 percent complete at the end of January. Vegetable and citrus harvesting activities continued throughout the month. ARKANSAS: The weather started with temperatures above the normal range for the month of January. However, mid-January brought freezing rain, sleet, and snow throughout the state. Cattle producers were grazing cool season pastures, and feeding hay and supplements. Unseasonably warm weather has stressed winter forages. CALIFORNIA: Temperatures were warmer and more uniform early in the week as dry conditions prevailed. Lows in the mountains ranged from 10 to 30°F, 30s to 40s in the valley, 40s along the coast, and 30s to 50s in the desert based on elevation. Highs in the mountains ranged from the 30s to 40s, 50s to 60s along the coast from north to south, 50s to 60s in the valley, and 60s to 70s with even a few 80s in the desert. Many areas of the State, not on the immediate coast or in the southern deserts, received 1 to 3 inches of rain for the week. The heaviest rains fell in the foothills of the central Sierras along the I-80 corridor, some locations received more than 5 inches. In the mountains, temperatures were cold enough for some or all of the precipitation to fall as snow. Heavy snow fell Thursday and Friday in the Central Sierras, with local snow totals of up to 3 to 4 feet. By Friday and Saturday, the southern Sierras received as much as 1 to 2 feet of new snowfall. In Tulare County, light precipitation allowed the soils to dry which resulted in more field activity. Crops that started to germinate continued to show ideal growth. Wheat, oat, and alfalfa fields continued to grow at a good pace with the recent precipitation. Herbicide spraying continued. Postharvest pruning and orchard replanting continued in deciduous tree fruit orchards, weather permitting. Grape vines were pruned and tied where soil conditions allowed. In Napa County, pruning was almost done. Manual weed control was performed on berms along with pre-emergent herbicides. Pomegranates and kiwifruit were picked and shipped. Harvest was ongoing for citrus including Navel, Cara Cara, mandarin, grapefruit, lemon, pumelos, and tangelos. Cultural practices picked up as groves dried out. Some citrus groves were pruned and skirted. Growers were applying rot related fungicidal sprays to prevent disease that follows wet weather. Post-harvest cultural maintenance continued when the soil dried out enough to get in the orchards. Some tree fruit and vines were pulled and replaced with walnut trees. Almond, walnut, and pistachio orchards were pruned, shredded, and cleaned. Some almond trees blew over and will need to be replaced. Almonds, pistachios, and shelled and in-shell walnuts were exported. In Fresno County, harvest of lettuce and other leafy vegetables continued. Water was pumped off the onion fields and bulb mite treatment was applied. Kale and other seed crops were fertilized through drip lines. In Tulare County, winter vegetables were well established. The damp weather made harvest difficult and interfered with preparations for the spring plantings. In Tulare County, recent rains continued to benefit the lower elevation pasture growth, reducing the need for supplemental feed. Vegetation in the foothills continued to thrive. Sheep continued to graze in alfalfa fields. Dairies were drying out but conditions remained muddy. Bees were shipped and placed in orchards. COLORADO: Topsoil moisture 11% very short, 11% short, 74% adequate, 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture 4% very short, 19% short, 75% adequate, 2% surplus. Pasture and range condition 11% very poor, 10% poor, 24% fair, 50% good, 5% excellent. Livestock condition 2% poor, 13% fair, 76% good, 9% excellent. Winter wheat condition 12% poor, 40% fair, 44% good, 4% excellent. Seasonal snow occurred in greatest abundance along the Front Range and into the western half of Colorado. Reporters indicated eastern districts remained relatively dry with conditions ideal for livestock producers. However, winter wheat snow protection remained inadequate in some eastern localities. As of February 1, snowpack in Colorado was at 113 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. DELAWARE: For the month of January maximum registered temperatures in some parts of the region were in the high 63°F with daily average of 42°F and minimum of 1°F with daily average of 22°F. There were 10 episodes of precipitation with historical maximum average of 29.2 inches of snow with some locations reporting 31+ inches of snow. The weather conditions diminished access to pasture and cover crop, some field activities were very limited due to high moisture with melting snow. Reporters noted some livestock producers' concerns due to low hay supply. January goes in the books as having one of the highest snow precipitation in one single snowstorm on record. Other farming activities for the month were limited to taking soil samples, repairing and continuing cleaning up equipment, purchasing supplies, finishing tax forms, pricing inputs for 2016 season, attending regional workshops, and farm shows. FLORIDA: January started cold, dry. By month's end, most of the State received heavy rainfall especially in central and south Florida. Cotton harvest completed in Gadsden County. Sugarcane harvest continued in Glades, Hendry counties. Flagler, Putnam, Bradford Counties started harvesting cabbage, strawberries, onions, greens, Swiss chard. Potato planting continued in Flagler, Putnam counties but slowed at the end of month due to wet fields. Southwest Florida, growers planted spring watermelons, vegetables. Crops were irrigated in Miami-Dade County. Miami-Dade County harvested green beans, pole beans, yellow squash, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, sweet corn, boniato, malanga, avocado, bitter melon, herbs. Cattle began grazing on winter oats, rye. By mid-month cold weather hurt winter forage. Livestock producers in Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties provided supplemental feed. At end of month, Panhandle pasture had standing water. Southwest pasture declined due to cooler, wetter weather. Citrus processing plants ran at full capacity. Harvesting of Hamlin and Pineapple oranges, colored, white grapefruit continued. Navel orange, Sunburst tangerine harvest slowed. Honey tangerine harvest started. Grove activity slow, irrigating, mowing, fertilizing. GEORGIA: Throughout the State, producers experienced mostly warm, wet conditions during January. Precipitation totals ranged from 2.3 inches in the southeastern region to 5.9 inches in the northern region. In light of heavy rains and flooding in December and January, producers continued to experience hardships with season-ending harvests and season-beginning land preparation and planting due to saturated soil. Producers were finishing up cotton, soybean, and peanut harvests throughout January, but were finding grade issues and decreased yields from the delayed harvest. While hay levels and quality have been good in some areas of the State, in other areas hay has been compromised due to heavy and enduring moisture on the ground and in the air. Some regions' hay inventories were low enough that farmers were not selling to new customers. While producers in the northern portion of the State were seeing above average small grain conditions and growth, central and southern areas experienced fair to poor conditions. Producers throughout the State have shown concern over increased disease, pest, and weed pressure, nutrient deficiencies, and soil saturation. Nitrogen levels were of particular concern since December and January storms washed out nutrient applications. Soil testing was delayed due to soil moisture levels. The fruit crop was behind on chill hours and some trees and shrubs were flowering early. Onion condition and progress was good. Despite some reports of muddy pastures and deteriorating hay supplies, cattle condition were good. HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE IDAHO: January brought milder, reasonable temperatures throughout most of the State. Snow continued to fall in large volumes, but was still slightly less than normal levels in many areas. The moisture from precipitation was well received. Alternating weather patterns in southwestern Idaho allowed moisture to soak into the earth rather than run off. Snowpack in the northern and south central regions were consistent throughout the month. Snow water and potential irrigation supply looked good. Southeastern Idaho had regular snows and typical winter conditions. Bonneville County reported snow depth in the valley caused minor problems. Hay was readily available. Livestock were in good condition across the State. Calving was getting underway in most areas and lambing had begun in the south. Owyhee County reported a fire affected many producers causing losses in grazing land for the coming seasons. There were no other reports of adverse crop or livestock conditions for the month. ILLINOIS: Topsoil moisture 74% adequate, 26% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% short, 81% adequate, 18% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 5% poor, 28% fair, 55% good, 10% excellent. Statewide, precipitation averaged 0.85 inch for the month, 1.08 inches below normal. The average temperature in January was 26.6°F, 1.8 degrees above normal. INDIANA: Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 4% short, 76% adequate, 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 7% short, 81% adequate, 10% surplus. Winter wheat condition, 1% very poor, 4% poor, 24% fair, 58% good, 13% excellent. Temperatures for the month averaged 27.6°F, 1.6 degrees above normal. Statewide average precipitation was 1.36 inches. Mild weather conditions continued through January, with much of the State receiving below average precipitation and above average temperatures. Farmers continued to work outdoors applying lime and laying tile in the fields when the weather permitted. Much of the winter wheat crop remained in good condition, although farmers remained concerned that the fluctuations in temperatures was causing some of the crop to brown along the leaf edges. Livestock was reported in good condition with the mild weather and hay supplies were adequate. Early calving had begun. Other activities included hauling grain, attending farm shows, preparing taxes, purchasing seed and fertilizer, and preparing equipment for spring plantings. IOWA: Topsoil moisture 0% very short, 0% short, 74% adequate, and 26% surplus. Iowa experienced fairly normal precipitation totals and temperatures for the month of January. Fieldwork activities for the month of January were limited to some dry fertilizer applications. Grain movement reported this January rated 21 percent moderate to heavy. Hay and roughage supplies were comparable to last year at this time. Reports were received of cattle producers battling muddy feedlots and concerns of cattle performance due to these conditions. Average snow depth for January was 3 inches. KANSAS: Topsoil moisture supplies rated 3% very short, 16% short, 76% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 5% very short, 17% short, 75% adequate, and 3% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 7% poor, 37% fair, 49% good and 6% excellent; Hay and Roughage supplies were rated 0% very short, 4% short, 86% adequate, 10% surplus. Stock water supplies were rated 4% very short, 12% short, 82% adequate, and 2% surplus. Cattle and Calves condition rated 0% very poor, 1% poor, 28% fair, 67% good and 4% excellent. Calving progress rated 10% calved. Cattle and calves death loss rated 1% heavy, 63% average, and 36% light. Sheep and Lambs condition rated 0% very poor, 0% poor, 36% fair, 63% good and 1% excellent. Sheep and lambs death loss rated 0% heavy, 74% average and 26% light. Temperatures averaged 2 degrees above normal in the western half of the State, but were near normal in the east, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. All of Kansas received some precipitation, with heaviest amounts in the central portion of the State. Livestock continued grazing on crop residue, with some supplemental feeding. KENTUCKY: The State experienced mixed weather conditions for the month of January. Through the first third of the month, above normal temperatures were reported. Temperatures then turned cooler and the last two weeks were much below normal. Up until the third week of January, winter had produced very little in the way of snowfall. Two storm systems during the week brought significant accumulations to many areas of the State. The first system produced highest amounts of snow across the western half of the State with 1 to 4 inches. A major winter storm worked through the Bluegrass State later in the week. The entire State went under a Winter Storm Warning. Initially, freezing rain led to some ice accumulations across portions of southern Kentucky near the Tennessee border. As the day progressed, all precipitation transitioned to snow with moderate to heavy activity. Higher accumulations were seen across South-Central and Eastern Kentucky with a widespread swath of 12 to 18+ inches. Tobacco producers continued to strip the remaining crop in the barn when conditions allowed. The amount of tobacco stripped was 95 percent. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 1% poor, 14% fair, 71% good, 12% excellent. Most producers still feel hay supplies are adequate, however some producers are looking for additional supplies to finish out winter. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 13% short, 79% adequate, 7% surplus. Livestock are generally in good body condition. However, the winter storm during the third week of the month was stressful. There were reports of livestock deaths as well as the loss of structures due to the storm. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 14% fair, 70% good, 12% excellent. Producers marketed their grain and tobacco crops and attended various commodity meetings across the State. Farmers were busy performing routine equipment maintenance in preparation for the upcoming planting season. LOUISIANA: The State averaged 4.30 inches of rain this month, remaining slightly below the norm. Field crop producers continued to repair equipment in preparation for spring planting. Strawberry producers began harvesting berries. Livestock producers were fertilizing winter pastures and feeding hay. Citrus producers finished harvest. Sugarcane producers attended to crops. Crawfish producers continued to put out traps in preparation for harvest. MARYLAND: For the month of January maximum registered temperatures in some part of the region were in the high 63°F with daily average of 42°F and minimum of 1°F with daily average of 22°F. There were 10 episodes of precipitation with historical maximum average of 29.2 inches of snow with some location reporting 31+ inches of snow. The weather conditions diminished access to pasture and cover crop, some field activities were very limited due to high moisture with melting snow. Reporters noted some livestock producers' concern due to low hay supply. January goes in the books as having one of the highest snow precipitation in one single snowstorm on record. Other farming activities for the month were limited to taking soil samples, repairing and continuing cleaning up equipment, purchasing supplies, finishing tax forms, pricing inputs for 2016 season, attending regional workshops, and farm shows. MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 1% short, 73% adequate, and 26% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 5% short, 83% adequate, and 11% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 23% fair, 58% good, and 15% excellent. After the warmest December in the State on record, temperatures began to cool down with the start of the New Year, although generally, temperatures across the State remained 1 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit above normal throughout the month. Despite precipitation levels across much of the State being below normal throughout the month, the remaining counties in the southern Lower Peninsula that had been rated in moderate drought in the January 5 Drought Monitor, and only a handful of counties in the Southeast were rated as abnormally dry by month's end. Moderate amounts of snow fell across the State during the second and third weeks of the month; lake-effect snow was common in the western Lower Peninsula and across the Upper Peninsula. Warmer temperatures with light rain during the final weekend of the month melted much of the snow cover, leaving some areas of ice and still frozen ground. There were reports of standing water and ice on winter wheat fields, leaving plants looking burned. While some reporters indicated skepticism for the wheat crop, others noted that wheat fields had good snow cover when the temperatures were at their coldest, and we have yet to see temperatures fall below zero this winter. No significant damage has been reported on fruit crops; chilling has been completed in many fruits and warmer weather is expected to result in early growth. Livestock were reported to be doing well, but some were not adjusting well to recent changing temperatures. Other activities included hauling and spreading manure, pruning orchards, and planning for the 2016 season. MINNESOTA: Temperatures were mostly mild throughout January with a few cold snaps. A low of -36°F was reported at Cotton in St. Louis County on January 12. High temperatures in the mid-40s were recorded by several locations on January 27. Average temperatures were warmer at the end of the month causing snow to melt. The preliminary statewide average temperature for the month was 1.9 degrees above average. Heavy snow fell in northwest portions of the state from January 6-7. The largest snowfall of 14 inches was reported at a station in Georgetown. Again, snow cover was light in northern parts of the state at the end of the month, raising concerns about possible winterkill in alfalfa and fall seeded crops. The preliminary statewide average precipitation was 0.28 inch below average for January. When conditions allowed, farmers hauled grain, harvested remaining corn, and spread manure. Some producers began planning for the upcoming growing season. Stress on livestock was low during the month, with more feed used during the cold periods. Livestock producers started winter calving and lambing. MISSISSIPPI: The month of January started with temperatures slightly higher than the norm and a fair amount of rain for much of the state. As the month progressed temperatures were consistently close to their norms and more rain throughout the State. The precipitation continued in the latter part of the month and as temperatures dropped significantly from the norm, snow formed with some areas of the state receiving as much as 3 inches. MISSOURI: Topsoil moisture 75% adequate, 25% surplus. Subsoil moisture 4% short, 81% adequate, 15% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 6% short, 88% adequate, 6% surplus. Stock water supplies 81% adequate, 19% surplus. Winter Wheat condition 2% very poor, 10% poor, 40% fair, 45% good, 3% excellent. MONTANA: Topsoil moisture 5% very short, 2% last year; 12% short, 14% last year; 79% adequate, 77% last year; 4% surplus, 7% last year. Subsoil moisture 8% very short, 5% last year; 24% short, 15% last year; 65% adequate, 68% last year; 3% surplus, 12% last year. Winter wheat - wind damage 81% none, 77% last year; 18% light, 16% last year; 1% moderate, 5% last year; 0% heavy, 2% last year. Winter wheat - freeze and drought damage 78% none, 79% last year; 20% light, 14% last year; 2% moderate, 7% last year; 0% heavy, 0% last year. Winter wheat - protectiveness of snow cover 17% very poor, 31% last year; 19% poor, 24% last year; 30% fair, 20% last year; 23% good, 13% last year; 11% excellent, 12% last year. Livestock grazing accessibility - 28% open, 43% last year; 28% difficult, 24% last year; 44% closed, 33% last year. Livestock receiving supplemental feed - cattle and calves 99% fed, 96% last year. Livestock birthing - calving complete 2%, 2% last year. Livestock receiving supplemental feed - sheep and lambs 98% fed, 96% last year. Livestock birthing - lambing complete 2%, 1% last year. January started cold with scattered snowstorms for much of Montana before conditions became mild and temperatures warmed significantly for the last part of the month. High temperatures ranged from the upper 30s to the lower 60s and low temperatures ranged from -30°F to the upper single digits. Precipitation in the form of snowfall was present across the State but in variable amounts, with the highest recorded this month in Heron with 3.58 inches of moisture, other reporting stations recorded between 0.06 to 2.14 inches of moisture. Winter damage to winter wheat increased from the previous month as a result of decreased snow coverage. The State's snow coverage fell to 34 percent good to excellent which is better than it was at this time last year when snow coverage was 25 percent good to excellent. Cold weather and lack of grass have more producers providing supplemental feed at higher rates than the previous year with 99 percent of cattle and 98 percent of sheep being fed, compared with 82 percent of both cattle and sheep last year. Livestock birthing has begun for the season with 2 percent of calving and lambing complete so far which is behind the five year average of 3 percent for cattle and ahead of the five year average of 1 percent for sheep. NEBRASKA: Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 13% short, 77% adequate, and 9% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 17% short, 77% adequate, and 4% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 3% poor, 41% fair, 46% good, 10% excellent. Stock water supplies 1% very short, 10% short, 87% adequate, and 2% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 0% very short, 5% short, 90% adequate, 5% surplus. Cattle and calves condition, 0% very poor, 1% poor, 9% fair, 77% good, 13% excellent. Calving, 4% complete. Cattle and calves death loss, 1% heavy, 58% average, 41% heavy. Sheep and lamb condition, 0% very poor, 0% poor, 14% fair, 83% good, 3% excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss, 0% heavy, 59% average, 41% light. For the month of January 2016, temperatures averaged near normal. Multiple snow events occurred during January, but most snow melted by the end of the month. Mild conditions allowed cattle to remain on stalks. Feedlots in southern counties were muddy. NEVADA: Temperatures warmed from the previous month's reported lows. Minimal snowfall fell during the first week in January across the northern portion of the State. Central/northern areas received several small fronts with associated winds and minimal amounts of moisture. The eastern portion of the State reported rain and snow flurries off and on throughout the month. A winter advisory warning was issued in the southern region mid-month. Freezing rain was reported in the central region and advisory warnings were issued at month's end. Cattle were reported foraging in Lincoln and Nye Counties throughout the month. NEW ENGLAND: Average temperatures in January were warmer than normal throughout all of area, with limited snowfall occurring. The areas that received some snow cover believe it will help prevent winter kill. In Connecticut, some producers began to tap maple trees. In Maine, producers noted that the warmer weather may make maple sap start flowing earlier in the season. Additionally, the warmer weather limited ground frost in some areas, hindering wood harvesting operations by creating ruts from the heavy machinery. Most cranberry growers in Massachusetts put on their winter floods in early January to help protect the plants from desiccation once the soil has frozen. In New Hampshire, orchardists with cold storage were marketing local apples and some with farm stands were making apple cider. Some winter farms offered carrots, potatoes, watermelon radishes, parsnips, and rutabagas. Rhode Island received approximately 3-6 inches of snow on January 23. To date, Vermont has not received much snow cover, which could make a dry start to be beginning of the growing season if they do not receive more snow in the next few months. Farm activities in January included finishing record keeping for the 2015 growing season, attending meetings, repairing equipment and buildings, pruning apple trees and blueberry bushes (NH), and planning for the 2016 growing season. NEW JERSEY: Weather was unusually warm for most of January prior to a cold snap ushering in a record snowfall of two to three feet across New Jersey. The snow made field work impossible but offered growers many opportunities to plow passages. Snow was melting off slowly and recharging the groundwater. This may benefit growers by providing high soil moisture in the early spring. Greenhouses were being seeded for spring transplanting. Annual strawberries may have lower yields, especially for early flowering varieties, because some flowered during the cold snap. Livestock producers were benefitting from the warmer weather conditions, but nutrition requirements and water supplies should still be monitored, and mud around feeders and other areas may cause issues. NEW MEXICO: The new year began drier and somewhat cooler than normal across much of New Mexico. Average temperatures for January 2016 ranged from 4 degrees above to 4 degrees below normal. Daytime highs ranged from 47°F at Chama to 81°F at Roswell. Overnight lows fell well below 0°F at several weather stations. Most notably, Eagle Nest recorded a low of -23°F. In portions of the northwest, warm, dry weather toward month's end resulted in some early snow melt. Monthly precipitation totals varied drastically, and ranged from 0.01 inch in Tucumcari to 5.13 inches at Otis. Reporter comments in District 30 indicated that approximately 80 percent of the winter wheat in the area is being grazed, and depending on whether the field has livestock present, the crop varies from 2 to 6 inches in height. Calving and lambing were underway. Feed and concentrate supplies 2 percent very short, 15 percent short, 45 percent adequate, 38 percent surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 2 percent very short, 3 percent short, 47 percent adequate, 48 percent surplus. Stock water supplies 1 percent very short, 19 percent short, 80 percent adequate. NEW YORK: Temperatures were unseasonably mild though still cold and windy throughout January. There was some snowfall but very little stayed as cover. Concerns were reported over icing harm to perennials, winter grains and fruit. In addition there were reports of potential erosion problems. Despite these dangers the mild weather was good for livestock. Operators were able to accomplish fieldwork more easily. Field activities for the month included tending livestock, trees, and vines, and fixing and maintaining machinery and structures. NORTH CAROLINA: Days suitable for field work 3.1. Topsoil moisture 1% short, 45% adequate and 54% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% short, 48% adequate and 51% surplus. North Carolina experienced above normal snowfall in late January resulting in wet conditions. Winter wheat condition 7% very poor, 17% poor, 40% fair, 29% good, 7% excellent. Oats condition 5% very poor, 13% poor, 48% fair, 32% good, 2% excellent. Barley condition 2% very poor, 18% poor, 44% fair, 35% good, 1% excellent. Pasture conditions 7% very poor, 20% poor, 43% fair, 28% good, 2% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 10% very short, 34% short, 54% adequate, 2% surplus. NORTH DAKOTA: Topsoil moisture 3% very short, 21% short, 74% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 25% short, 67% adequate, 3% surplus. Winter wheat condition, 4% very poor, 3% poor, 28% fair, 64% good, 1% excellent. Cattle and calves condition, 0% very poor, 0% poor, 9% fair, 80% good, 11% excellent. Calving, 2% complete. Cattle and calves death loss, 1% heavy, 32% average, 67% light. Sheep and lambs condition, 0% very poor, 1% poor, 12% fair, 78% good, 9% excellent. Lambing, 6% complete. Sheep and lambs death loss, 0% heavy, 32% average, 68% light. Hay and roughage supplies, 0% very short, 4% short, 83% adequate, 13% surplus. Stock water supplies, 1% very short, 9% short, 88% adequate, 2% surplus. Precipitation occurred Statewide with average temperatures above normal. The mild winter has diminished some of the snow cover, creating open areas in fields. OHIO: Topsoil moisture 8% short, 73% adequate, and 19% surplus. Subsoil moisture 9% short, 79% adequate, 12% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% poor, 25% fair, 59% good, and 15% excellent. The January 2015 statewide average temperature was 27.3°F, 0.8 degree above normal. Precipitation averaged 1.38 inches Statewide, which was 1.15 inches below normal for the month of January. There was little to no snow cover on the wheat throughout the month, but mild winter temperatures meant this was not a great concern. The winter has been uneventful so far. OKLAHOMA: Overall, Oklahoma experienced normal weather for the month of January. The heaviest rains were received in the West Central and Southeast districts. According to the Mesonet, there were a few winter storms in areas of the West Central and Southwest districts early in the month. Precipitation across the state averaged 0.76 of an inch, ranging from 1.60 inches in the Panhandle district to 1.30 inches in the West Central district. Statewide temperatures averaged in the mid 30's, with the lowest recording of 4°F at Kenton on Monday, January 11th and the highest recording of 85°F at Hollis on Saturday, January 30th. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly adequate to short. OREGON: Rains continued throughout the month of January for much of Oregon. There were reports of as much as 14.30 inches of rain in Astoria, and as little as 0.40 inch of rain in Joseph. The highest temperature reported was 70°F in the coastal area at North Bend, and the lowest temperature reported was -21°F in the south central region at Agency Lake Meso. The north central region of the State reported surviving fruit trees were doing well after the freeze. The recent snow and rain had all producers optimistic for the coming growing season. Fall grain fields were doing well and native rangelands looked promising. The southeastern region reported Lake County was at 126 percent of average since the beginning of the water year. Other regions reported significant rainfall and snowpack. PENNSYLVANIA: The State experienced very mild winter. There was a snow blizzard on January 22nd to January 23rd. Adams County received record snowfall with York Springs having 34 inches and most other areas of the county having at least 30 inches. Along with the snow was windy conditions so there was also drifting of the snow which made it more difficult for plowing. So far crops are doing well this year. Due to warmer weather during December major concern was the wheat/barley small grains. In some counties grounds were still under the snow. Fruit growers continued to prune their apple trees despite the snow. Tractor dealers were hosting open houses complete with pancakes and various lunches throughout Feb. Producers were busy attending educational meetings about growing crops and how to make decisions regarding on crop production etc. They were busy attending pesticide update meetings for credits towards state applicator permit. SOUTH CAROLINA: January was another wet month for the State. Although temperatures were above normal for the most part, much of the State experienced 1-3 inches of snow during a short cold snap mid-month. The average high temperatures ranged from low to high 50s and the average low temperatures ranged between the high 20s to the high 30s. Precipitation estimates for the State ranged from 1.94 inches to 4.46 inches. The wet soil conditions have delayed some fieldwork and may delay spring planting as well. Most crops not harvested by mid-January have been given up on and soggy field conditions are stalling the destruction of the unharvested cops. Small grains in the Upstate were progressing at a faster than normal rate due to the warm temperatures. However, small grain acreage is down substantially due to field conditions elsewhere and that which was planted is struggling. Pastures and livestock were reported in good to excellent condition in some areas but mold and rot from the continued rains in others were negatively impacting pastures and hay supplies. SOUTH DAKOTA: Topsoil moisture 3% very short, 16% short, 79% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 21% short, 72% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition, 0% very poor, 1% poor, 32% fair, 61% good, 6% excellent. Stock water supplies, 4% very short, 16% short, 77% adequate, 3% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies, 0% very poor, 2% poor, 89% adequate, 9% excellent. Cattle and calf condition, 0% very poor, 1% poor, 15% fair, 75% good, 9% excellent. Cattle and calf death loss, 1% heavy, 45% average, 54% light. Sheep and lamb condition, 0% very poor, 0% poor, 19% fair, 71% good, 10% excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss, 0% heavy, 46% average, 54% light. For the month of January 2016, temperature extremes prevailed across the State with below zero lows recorded mid-month, and highs in the 40's by the end of January, according to USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Snowfall for the month was heaviest in the northeast and west central counties. TENNESSEE: Days suitable 2.2. Topsoil moisture 1% short, 64% adequate, 35% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% short, 67% adequate, 32% surplus. Winter wheat condition 5% poor, 21% fair, 56% good, 18% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 8% very poor, 14% poor, 44% fair, 32% good, 2% excellent. Cattle condition 3% poor, 27% fair, 62% good, 8% excellent. Hay supplies 1% very short, 9% short, 78% adequate, 12% surplus. Tennessee experienced cold wet weather along with a heavy snow storm in January which kept livestock producers busy keeping cattle fed. Winter wheat was in good condition except for areas that have flooded or stayed saturated. TEXAS: Scattered, mostly light showers were experienced across the state last week. Areas of the Upper Coast and South East Texas received rainfall upwards of 1.0 inch, with isolated areas reaching upwards of 2.0 inches. Areas of the Trans-Pecos, the Edwards Plateau, and South Central Texas received upwards of 0.25 of an inch of precipitation. The rest of the State experienced little to no measurable rainfall. Winter Wheat and oats continued to progress, with some producers in areas of South Texas beginning to irrigate wheat and oat fields due to dry conditions. However, overall conditions were rated mostly good to fair. Statewide cotton harvest was 97 percent complete, 3 points behind normal. Some producers in areas of the Blacklands began applying fertilizer in preparation for corn seeding. In areas of North East Texas land preparation for vegetable seeding was active. In South Texas dry conditions prompted producers to begin irrigating vegetables. Pastures continued to progress, as livestock producers across the state continued supplemental feeding. Feral hogs was active in areas of the Blacklands and North East Texas. Dry conditions and low humidity levels caused wildfire concerns in areas of the Southern Low Plains. UTAH: Topsoil moisture 0% very short, 1% last year; 1% short, 30% last year; 88% adequate, 67% last year; 11% surplus, 2% last year. Subsoil moisture 0% very short, 3% last year; 26% short, 33% last year; 74% adequate, 62% last year; 0% surplus, 2% last year. Pasture and range condition 2% very poor, 0% last year; 10% poor, 5% last year; 23% fair, 54% last year; 64% good, 39% last year; 1% excellent, 2% last year. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 0% last year; 0% poor, 1% last year; 35% fair, 30% last year; 51% good, 58% last year; 14% excellent, 11% last year. Hay and roughage supplies 0% very short, 0% last year; 0% short, 1% last year; 70% adequate, 98% last year; 30% surplus year, 1% last year. Stock water supplies 2% very short, 3% last year; 6% short, 23% last year; 91% adequate, 74% last year; 1% surplus, 0% last year. Cattle and calves condition 0% very poor, 0% last year; 0% poor, 0% last year; 25% fair, 15% last year; 64% good, 83% last year; 11% excellent, 2% last year. Sheep and lambs condition 0% very poor, 0% last year; 0% poor, 0% last year; 29% fair, 23% last year; 62% good, 74% last year; 9% excellent, 3% last year. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for cattle 68%, 46% last year. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for sheep 53%, 39% last year. Cows calved 5%, 5% last year. Farm Flock Ewes Lambed 1%, 2% last year, and Range Flock Ewes Lambed 0%, 0% last year. During January, the State received adequate amount of snow along with cooler temperatures. Producers were preparing for calving and lamb season. Cattle were being fed supplemental feeds to be in shape for calving. VIRGINIA: Barley condition was 13% fair, 75% good, and 12% excellent. Oats condition was 27% fair and 73% good. Winter wheat condition was 2% poor, 26% fair, 63% good, and 9% excellent. Livestock condition was 1% poor, 10% poor 26% fair, 53% good, and 10% excellent. Pasture and range condition was 12% very poor, 18% poor, 31% fair, 34% good, and 5% excellent. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 15%. After an unusually mild December, followed a colder January. Warmer temperatures towards beginning of month were beneficial for small grains, but colder temperatures and snow persisted throughout the later parts of the month. The heavy amounts of snow and rain have left farmers with wet, muddy conditions and less days available for fieldwork. Farming activities for the month included attending educational programs, purchasing seed, reading soil samples, and making fertilizer decisions. WASHINGTON: Large amounts of precipitation were reported across the State and it was slightly warmer than normal in most areas. Western and southeastern parts received primarily heavy rains with occasional snows. The western region water was flowing through fields and down slopes to the shore. Lots of standing water was reported in fields due to the wet weather conditions. The southeastern region snow cover was mostly gone due to rains. The crops looked good while moisture infiltrated the surface. The central portion received much more snow. There was sufficient cold to hold a hard layer of snow on the ground. Kittitas County reported snowpack levels of almost double the previous year's snowpack. The snow slowed hay movement in some central counties. Berry growers were in the fields tying and pruning vines and trees in the western and central regions. Wheat acreage and spring pastures appeared to be in good shape. Livestock were largely on full feed. Lambing and kidding started in some areas. Western areas moved livestock to higher ground to avoid water and mud forming conditions. WEST VIRGINIA: Topsoil moisture was 2% short, 59% adequate, and 39% surplus, compared to 4% short, 80% adequate, and 16% surplus last year. Subsoil moisture was 1% very short, 4% short, 71% adequate, and 24% surplus, compared to 1% very short, 7% short, 86% adequate, and 6% surplus last year. Hay and roughage supplies were 6% short, 90% adequate, and 4% surplus compared to 9% short, 86% adequate, and 5% surplus last year. Feed grain supplies were 3% short, 95% adequate, and 2% surplus compared to 4% short, 95% adequate, and 1% surplus last year. Winter wheat conditions were 5% very poor, 17% poor, 24% fair, 46% good, and 8% excellent. Cattle and calves were 2% poor, 24% fair, 69% good, and 5% excellent. Sheep and lambs were 2% poor, 25% fair, 70% good, and 3% excellent. The month was mostly cold and snowy. A winter storm moved through and brought up to three and a half feet of snow; Governor Tomblin declared a State of Emergency on Friday, January 22nd. The end of the month had warmer temperatures. Farming activities for the month included the dormant pruning of fruit trees, except for peach, checking on livestock, and cleaning up after the heavy snows; barns and commercial buildings were damaged and there were also reports of animal injuries and deaths. WISCONSIN: Temperatures were slightly warmer than average for the month of January, ranging from 0.5 to 2.6 degrees above normal at the five major weather stations. Average highs ranged from 23.6 in Eau Claire to 28.8 in Milwaukee, while average lows ranged from 8.1 to 16.9 in those same cities. Precipitation ranged from 0.44 inch in Eau Claire to 1.33 inches in Green Bay. Green Bay received the most snowfall out of the major cities with 7.7 inches. La Crosse received the least, with 4.1 inches of snow for the month. Numerous reporters mentioned that the winter was "mild" though daily temperatures varied, with weeks of unusually warm weather punctuated by a few cold snaps. Many operators reported good snow cover, with numerous reports of 6 to 12 inches on the ground, though some reporters noted more snow was necessary to protect alfalfa and fall seeded grain in certain counties. Most field work and manure hauling were complete due to the long, mild fall. WYOMING: Topsoil moisture 6% very short, 35% short, 57% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 6% very short, 33% short, 61% adequate. Winter wheat condition 25% fair, 75% good. Hay and roughage supplies 6% short, 57% adequate, 37% surplus. Livestock condition 1% poor, 9% fair, 81% good, 9% excellent. Stock water supplies 1% very short, 15% short, 84% adequate. Pasture and range condition 2% very poor, 9% poor, 35% fair, 54% 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 Angie Considine - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum.. (202) 720-5944 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 Jean Porter - Rye, Wheat............................ (202) 720-8068 Bianca Pruneda - Peanuts, Rice...................... (202) 720-7688 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: http://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 http://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. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the Department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment activities.) If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF), found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.