Crop Progress - State Stories
ISSN: 2470-9816
Released February 23, 2021, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service
(NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA).
ALABAMA: February temperatures were on par with or down as much as
9.3 degrees Fahrenheit below historic averages. Total rainfall for the month
ranged from 1.4 inches to 9.4 inches. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor,
abnormally dry conditions affected 35 to 41 percent of the State throughout
the month. Additionally, moderate drought conditions affected 5 to 8 percent
of the State during February. Producers in northern counties struggled with
ice and snow that delayed fieldwork and made providing feed and water to
livestock difficult. Furthermore, the sale of livestock was delayed as
weather conditions temporarily closed auction barns. In southern counties,
rain and saturated fields delayed cattle from being released onto winter
grazing. However, occasional breaks in the rain permitted fieldwork to
progress on schedule. Some producers continued to work on repairing fields
and pond dams that were damaged by Hurricane Sally. Throughout the state,
winter wheat growth and condition ranged from poor to good, depending on
localized weather. Likewise, winter grazing ranged from depleted to adequate.
Hay stocks remained adequate, despite hay consumption being greater than
normal due to below-average temperatures. Livestock producers continued to
provide supplemental feed. Overall, livestock were in fair to good condition.
ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
ARIZONA: This report for Arizona is for the entire month of February 2021. By
the end of the month, 85 percent of barley has been planted, 70 percent has
emerged, and 5 percent has headed, according to the Mountain Regional Field
Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Barley
conditions were rated mostly good. Seventy-five percent of Durum wheat has
been planted, 60 percent has emerged, and 1 percent has headed. Durum wheat
conditions were rated mostly good. Alfalfa conditions were rated mostly
excellent to good, depending on location last month with harvesting taking
place on more than three-quarters of the alfalfa acreage across the State.
For the entire State, pasture and range conditions were rated mostly very
poor to poor. Some precipitation was received at the end of the month, but
severe to exceptional dryness in the entire State continues to affect pasture
and range conditions, forage growth, crop progress, soil moisture, stream
water, and stock tanks.
ARKANSAS: The month of February had below normal temperatures and slightly
below average rainfall. An atypical winter storm brought extreme temperature
decrease and heavy snow accumulations the third week of the month. Fieldwork
was suspended due to conditions. Wheat and winter pasture fertilization
application has been delayed. Some cattle producers reported high mortality
rates for newborn calves and mature cattle. The State average rainfall was
2.87 inches for the month of February with an average temperature of about
32 degrees.
CALIFORNIA: Topsoil moisture 25% short, 70% adequate and 5% surplus. Subsoil
moisture 5% very short, 70% short and 25% adequate. Temperatures for the
month averaged 51.2 degrees, 1.0 degree above normal. Statewide average
monthly precipitation was 0.82 inch. The last weather system brought mostly
trace amounts of rainfall, with no rain forecast for the next week. Light
winds are further drying the soil in some areas. Bees are in place and full
almond bloom is approaching in the end of February or early March. Dormant
spray for Prunes were low. Carrot harvest is in full swing with fields drying
for a clean harvest. Fumigation for summer carrots was taking place. Onions
are established and herbicides and fertilizer were being applied through
sprinklers. Preparation of beds and fumigation in the plant line is
continuing for processing Tomatoes. Broccoli for seed is starting to bloom
with additional fertilizer applied. Pistachio pruning continued. Wine grape
pruning was completed in Central Valley. Transplanting equipment was readied
in anticipation of early calls to go to work. Light winds are further drying
the soil in some areas. Grain is being irrigated and fertilized. In many
places, natural grass has not come up on rangeland yet. Cattle are out
grazing with supplement feed. Winter wheat and other small grain fields are
growing at a slower pace than usual, due in part to lack of moisture. It will
soon be time to top dress with additional nitrogen to help growth.
COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the entire month of February 2021.
Topsoil moisture 34% very short, 39% short, 27% adequate. Subsoil moisture
37% very short, 43% short, 20% adequate. Winter wheat condition 15% very
poor, 14% poor, 52% fair, 17% good, 2% excellent. Cows calved 8%, 24% 2020.
Ewes lambed 11%, 9% 2020. Livestock condition 3% very poor, 8% poor,
41% fair, 42% good, 6% excellent. Pasture and range condition 38% very poor,
29% poor, 24% fair, 9% good. Drought maintained its grip across the State,
but seasonal moisture during February brought a little relief to areas and
improved soil moisture. In northeastern counties, winter wheat benefitted
from snow cover and received moisture was welcome throughout the district.
Extreme cold mid-month stressed livestock producers starting to calve. Calves
lost due to the cold were reported. In east central counties, wheat producers
expect to see winterkill in areas with little cover after extremely cold
temperatures. Some moisture was received but moisture content in snow was
low. Southwestern counties remained in extreme to exceptional drought,
according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report, but snowpack was better
compared to the prior month. The San Luis Valley received good moisture and
better snow cover was reported, but pasture and rangeland grass remained in
need of more moisture before spring. Calving and lambing also began. Concerns
remained high regarding the area aquifer and water supplies going into
spring. In southeastern counties, calving started and increased death loss
was reported during extremely cold weather. Feed supplies remained tight.
Some localities benefitted from snowfall but fields with minimal snow cover
were affected by high winds and erosion was noted. As of February 19, 2021,
snowpack in the State was 91 percent measured as percent of median snowfall.
DELAWARE: The State experienced excessive precipitation and high moisture
conditions. Some areas in fields that were never flooded were saturated.
Fertilizer, manure, or lime applications may be difficult this year as well
as early crop planting due to the weather conditions. Wheat condition looked
average for the time being. Fieldwork activities were reduced to equipment
maintenance.
FLORIDA: February temperatures were on average 3 degrees warmer than
historical values. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.1 inch in
Monroe to 11.2 inches in Duval County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor,
33 percent of the State was in abnormally dry conditions at the end of the
month. Pastures conditions declined at the beginning of the month due to
frosts and overall cold conditions. As temperatures rose later in the month,
conditions improved across the State as pastures started to green back up.
Cattle conditions remained mostly good. Sugarcane harvest continued in the
southern peninsula with minimal damage reported from frost in the middle of
the month. Towards the end of the month, powdery mildew and worm pressure was
reported in some crops. Vegetable growers continued planting spring crops but
cold temperatures delayed planting early in the month. A wide range of
vegetable crops came to market including avocado, green beans, herbs, squash,
sweet corn, tomatoes, and zucchini. Citrus fruit harvested for the fresh
market included white and red grapefruit, early and midseason oranges,
tangerines, and tangelos. At month's end, most plants had finished processing
early and mid-season non-Valencia oranges. Citrus grove activities included
fertilizing, mowing, hedging, applying herbicides, and minimal spraying.
GEORGIA: February temperatures were on average 2 degrees colder than
historical values. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 1.8 inches in
Walton County to 9.9 inches in Telfair County. According to the U.S. Drought
Monitor, only 6 percent of the State was in abnormally dry conditions at the
end of the month. Frequent rain events saturated fields, caused runoff, and
prevented famers from getting into their fields across the State for much of
the month. Small grains and winter wheat were in need of additional
fertilizer but wet conditions prevented farmers from applying it, which led
to nutrient deficiencies in many areas. Spring crop planting was also delayed
due to the wet and cold conditions. Hay supplies started to run short in some
areas due to increased feeding. However, cattle were rated in mostly fair to
good condition overall. Pest pressure was limited in the State due to the
cold temperatures. Damage from frost and cold temperatures were reported in
some winter forages. Onion crop progress was behind the normal pace due to
limited sunshine and overcast days during the month. Fruit trees were pruned
and pecan trees were planted.
HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
IDAHO: The Statewide temperatures in Idaho for the month of January were
normal to below average throughout the State. February ended a relatively
mild winter in Idaho. Significant snow fell in the mountains, and notably, in
the Tetons and the headwater regions of the Snake River. Northern Idaho
received significant snowfall. The heavy snowfall provided great moisture for
crop fields and abundant snowpack in the mountains. Some concern was
expressed in Benewah and Kootenai Counties over the very cold temperatures
they experienced prior to the snow event. Calving and lambing both progressed
in northern and southwestern Idaho. Three good storms over the last two weeks
added much needed moisture in Southwestern Idaho. In south central Idaho,
temperatures cooled to norms that were more seasonal. The region finally
received snow in the valley. Cautiously, the upcoming water year started to
look better. Given the cooler weather conditions, farm work trended to a more
normal schedule. Major activities included hauling manure. The February
moisture helped the winter wheat crop come out of dormancy in good condition.
In eastern Idaho, Bannock and Bingham Counties received much needed snow.
Lemhi, Clark, Fremont, and Teton Counties also received steady snowfall
throughout February. Ranchers started calving and the February weather
conditions made it more challenging.
ILLINOIS: For the week ending on February 21, 2021. Topsoil moisture 1% very
short, 8% short, 69% adequate, 22% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short,
15% short, 72% adequate, 11% surplus. Statewide, the average temperature in
February was 14.0 degrees, 14.5 degrees below normal. Precipitation averaged
1.12 inches, 0.17 inch below normal.
INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of February was 2% very short,
13% short, 61% adequate, and 24% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was
6% very short, 19% short, 57% adequate, and 18% surplus. Winter wheat
condition was rated 1% very poor, 4% poor, 30% fair, 57% good, and
8% excellent. Statewide temperatures averaged 18.4 degrees, 10.3 degrees
below normal for the month of February. Statewide average precipitation was
1.41 inches, 0.16 inch below normal. Most of the State saw significant
snowfall over the last month, and the cold temperatures helped to maintain
snow cover in most fields. Soil moisture levels increased from the previous
month. The unusually cold temperatures raised concerns for the winter wheat
crop, but the deep snow cover throughout most of the State helped mitigate
potential damage. Winter wheat conditions remained relatively stable from the
previous month. The cold temperatures were reported to be negatively
affecting livestock in some areas. Hay supplies remained adequate. Other
activities for the month included hauling grain, purchasing seed, equipment
maintenance, and attending Extension events.
IOWA: Although February began with above normal temperatures, unseasonably
cold temperatures spread across the State for almost two weeks. Measurable
snowfall was recorded the first and third weeks of February across the State.
No fieldwork activities were reported for the month. Grain movement continued
due to strong prices. The extreme cold temperatures and snow accumulation
created challenges for livestock producers. In addition to difficulties
keeping water available for some livestock, producers have been using extra
feed and bedding due to the low temperatures. Lambing and calving continues
with reports of livestock losses at normal levels. Although moisture levels
for the 2021 crop year are still a concern for some, most of the State has
significant snow cover with widespread depth reports of a foot or more.
KANSAS: For the week ending February 21, 2021, topsoil moisture supplies
rated 15% very short, 27% short, 51% adequate, 7% surplus. Subsoil moisture
supplies rated 15% very short, 29% short, 52% adequate, 4% surplus. Winter
wheat condition rated 8% very poor, 18% poor, 34% fair, 37% good,
3% excellent.
KENTUCKY: For the month of February, Kentucky saw well below normal
temperatures and below normal precipitation. Snow and ice prevailed across
the State with cold temperatures sustaining the accumulation. Temperatures
for the period averaged 28 degrees across the State, which was 8 degrees
cooler than normal. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled
1.99 inches Statewide, which was 0.69 inch below normal and 74% of normal.
With the extreme cold and snow, farmers have begun tapping into their hay
supplies in order to maintain livestock. For the month of February, hay
supplies 2% very short, 12% short, 80% adequate, 6% surplus. Livestock
condition declined overall as the cold weather took hold. Livestock
conditions 3% very poor, 4% poor, 24% fair, 61% good, 8% excellent. Condition
of winter wheat 1% very poor, 3% poor, 24% fair, 65% good, 7% excellent.
LOUISIANA: The month of February had below average temperatures and slightly
below average rainfall. An atypical winter storm brought rain, snow and
freezing temperatures for multiple days to much of the State. Some cattle
producers reported high death loss of new calves. Ryegrass pastures were in
bad condition. The average temperature for the month was about 46 degrees
with an average rainfall of 3.97 inches.
MARYLAND: The month of February experienced snow, rain, and icy conditions.
This has kept topsoil wet, causing pastures and feeding areas to be chopped
up. These weather conditions have prevented spreading manure, lime, or
fertilizer applications on some fields. Fieldwork included equipment
maintenance, as little can be done in such inclement weather.
MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 3% short, 90% adequate and 7% surplus. Subsoil
moisture 1% very short, 8% short, 85% adequate, and 6% surplus. Winter wheat
condition rated 1% very poor, 4% poor, 28% fair, 61% good, and 6% excellent.
Precipitation for the month of February averaged 1.12 inches throughout the
State, 0.10 inch above normal. Temperature for the month averaged
13.0 degrees, 7.6 degrees below normal. The weather has been a stark contrast
when compared to the mild conditions experienced throughout most of January.
Temperatures were significantly colder across the State. Cumulative
precipitation showed an increase in February as snowfall in most areas
rebounded to a much more normal level. The cold conditions have made daily
operations much more challenging on most farms. Fruit growers continued to
prune trees and maintain orchards despite the frigid temperatures. Weather
conditions remained good for winter wheat with 67% of the crop rated in the
good to excellent range. Damage remains a concern where there is not
sufficient snow cover. Other activities for the month included snow removal,
tending to livestock, hauling grain, and preparing equipment for spring.
MINNESOTA: February began with normal to above normal temperatures. Colder
weather moved in and blanketed the State with below normal temperatures for
almost two weeks. Frost depth increased in areas with minimal or no snow
cover. Grain movement was widespread. Feedstocks were adequate despite
producers' increased use of bedding and feed. Calving and lambing are
underway. It was difficult for some producers to keep lambs warm enough at
birth. In spite of poor livestock conditions due to the extreme cold, minimal
losses were reported. With the recent warmer weather, farmers have begun
thinking about planting and locking in seed and fertilizer supplies.
MISSISSIPPI: Conditions for the month of February have been cold and wet.
Grounds are saturated and little fieldwork has been completed at this time.
Atypical winter weather has put a strain on livestock conditions. The State
average temperature was about 37 degrees for the month of February. Rainfall
and average temperatures were typical for this time of year in the State
until last week when the State saw excess ice, snow, and unusually cold
temperatures ranging up to 28 degrees below average for this time of year.
MISSOURI: For the week ending February 21, 2021. Topsoil moisture 2% short,
72% adequate, and 26% surplus. Subsoil moisture 8% short, 88% adequate, and
4% surplus. Winter wheat condition 5% poor, 41% fair, 48% good, and
6% excellent. Statewide, precipitation averaged 1.43 inches for the month of
February, 0.50 inch below average. Temperatures averaged 17.1 degrees,
15.7 degrees below normal.
MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the entire month of February 2021.
Topsoil moisture 12% very short, 41% short, 46% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil
moisture 11% very short, 40% short, 48% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat -
condition 2% very poor, 9% poor, 20% fair, 61% good, 8% excellent. Winter
wheat - wind damage 57% none, 26% light, 10% moderate, 7% heavy. Winter wheat
- freeze and drought damage 71% none, 20% light, 7% moderate, 2% heavy.
Winter wheat - protectiveness of snow cover 10% very poor, 9% poor, 24% fair,
46% good, 11% excellent. Pasture and range - condition 21% very poor, 21%
poor, 47% fair, 9% good, 2% excellent. Livestock grazing accessibility - 41%
open, 24% difficult, 35% closed. Livestock receiving supplemental feed -
cattle and calves 97% fed. Livestock receiving supplemental feed - sheep and
lambs 97% fed. The month of February produced cooler winter conditions and
fluctuating temperatures across the State of Montana, according to the
Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics
Service, USDA. Reporters across the State noted they received a couple of
decent storm events in February, which improved the snow cover and provided
needed moisture. A cold snap pushed temperatures below historical averages,
with temperatures dipping below zero into the third week of the month.
Temperatures then began to slowly rise closer to the historical averages
towards the end of the month. Low temperatures ranged from the low 40s to -
20s. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, approximately 97 percent of
Montana is abnormally dry or in a current state of drought, with about 8
percent of the State in severe or extreme drought.
NEBRASKA: For the week ending February 21, 2021, topsoil moisture supplies
rated 14% very short, 32% short, 51% adequate, and 3% surplus. Subsoil
moisture supplies rated 20% very short, 42% short, 37% adequate, and
1% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 9% very poor, 13% poor, 44% fair,
33% good, and 1% excellent.
NEVADA: Topsoil moisture 50% very short, 25% short, 25% adequate. Subsoil
moisture 70% very short, 25% short, 5% adequate. Temperatures for the month
averaged 37.8 degrees, 2.5 degrees above normal. Statewide average
precipitation was 0.60 inch.
NEW ENGLAND: New England states experienced very variable weather - cold
days, snow, rain, and no periods of warmth. In Massachusetts, various
cranberry growers are ice sanding while others are badge sanding, while
cranberry vines are under winter floods to protect against winter injury
caused by temperature fluctuations. The vines will be removed in March to
enable buds to break from a dormant state, ultimately protecting the young
tender buds from winter injury through the winter floods. According to a
New Hampshire reporter, farmers are repairing equipment, buildings, and
planning for 2021 growing season, all while attending virtual/zoom/internet
meetings. Furthermore, they are in the process of finishing the record
keeping for the 2020 growing season. Temperature conditions have remained in
the teens and some evenings have been below zero, top soils remain frozen and
there is minimal snow cover to insulate from the ground. The water table in
this area is still below normal, thus, water supplies on some farms are still
inadequate for the daily demands of livestock. Maple sugar operations are
tapping out, but the week of February 21 promises to provide some good
conditions for sap runs as temperatures moderate throughout the reaming days
in the month. In Vermont there is plenty of snow cover in certain areas for
the month of February. Such snowfall and steady temperatures helped keep the
snow in place. Even though, sugar makers are getting anxious that most are
tapped out even with the deep snow in the woods. Lastly, stored hay supplies
are short with hay moving out of the county to areas that had low production
due to dry weather in summer of 2020.
NEW JERSEY: Weather for the month of February was reported as normal. Fruit
buds were still holding tight as they have not seen a significant swing with
above normal temperatures. Some vegetable farmers have begun seeding in
greenhouses.
NEW MEXICO: This report for New Mexico is for the month of February 2021
through February 21. Topsoil moisture 60% very short, 26% short,
12% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 67% very short, 29% short,
3% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 28% very poor, 37% poor,
21% fair, 14% good. Cows calved 14%, 19% last year. Cattle receiving
supplemental feed 93%, 84% last year. Cattle condition 12% very poor,
13% poor, 39% fair, 31% good, 5% excellent. Ewes lambed 19%, 20% last year.
Sheep receiving supplemental feed 87%, 74% last year. Sheep and lambs
condition 47% very poor, 18% poor, 21% fair, 14% good. Hay and roughage
supplies 40% very short, 39% short, 21% adequate. Stock water supplies
23% very short, 42% short, 34% adequate, 1% surplus. Generally, precipitation
received since February 1 has been below average for much of the State,
prohibiting any meaningful improvement of soil moisture levels or winter
wheat condition, while keeping pressure on ranchers to provide supplemental
feedstuffs to livestock at rates distinctly higher than last year. Reports
noted extreme cold, with overnight temperatures falling to 20+ degrees below
zero in some locations. Much of the snow accumulation associated with the
polar vortex was dry, providing limited water content. Statewide, 65 percent
of the winter wheat crop was reported in very poor to poor condition,
compared with 69 percent at the end of January and 30 percent in
February 2020. For the period of February 1 - February 21, converted monthly
moisture totals - accounting for any precipitation received as snow - ranged
from approximately 3 inches to merely a trace, with dryness across a few
pockets within a few northeastern and southeastern counties. According to the
United States Drought Monitor for February 16, virtually the entire State
continued to suffer from moderate drought or worse. Severe drought (D2)
covered 17.7 percent of the State, and extreme drought (D3) remained
entrenched across 28.0 percent. Exceptional drought (D4) stabilized somewhat,
and now covered 65,944 square miles, or 54.2 percent of the State. Topsoil
moisture levels were reported as 86 percent short to very short, compared
with 95 percent at the end of January and 49 percent at the end of February
last year. Hay and roughage supplies were reported as 40 percent very short,
39 percent short, and 21 percent adequate, compared with 25 percent very
short, 50 percent short, and 25 percent adequate at the end of January. Stock
water supplies were reported as 23 percent very short, 42 percent short,
34 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus, compared with 20 percent very
short, 49 percent short, 30 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus at the
end of January.
NEW YORK: The State experienced colder, more traditional winter weather in
February, with significant snow pack in some areas and frequent light snow
showers. Some producers reported an absence of frost on the ground under snow
cover and that the snow has been helpful in insulating crops. There have been
no reports of any challenges with livestock.
NORTH CAROLINA: For the week ending February 21, 2021 - Subsoil moisture
1% short, 28% adequate, 71% surplus. Topsoil moisture 14% adequate and
86% surplus. Barley condition 12% poor, 65% fair, 20% good and 3% excellent.
Hay and roughage supplies 6% short, 89% adequate, 5% surplus. Oats condition
2% very poor, 21% poor, 62% fair, and 15% good. Pasture and range condition
1% very poor, 8% poor, 45% fair and 46% good. Winter wheat condition 5% very
poor, 19% poor, 44% fair, 28% good, and 4% excellent. Throughout February,
fields are extremely wet, and the majority of wheat is showing nutrient
deficiency symptoms (yellow, purple, and red coloring) due to the extreme
moisture and lack of sun. Little to no winter weed control work is being
done. Wheat is dangerously low on mid-winter nutrients and tiller counts are
poor. Cold weather, lack of sunshine and rain are leaving pastures in poor
condition. Little winter forage growth is happening. Small grain crops are
looking very thin right now. Tobacco greenhouses are being seeded this week.
NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending February 21, 2021, topsoil moisture
supplies, 29% very short, 43% short, 27% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil
moisture supplies, 28% very short, 34% short, 37% adequate, 1% surplus.
Winter wheat condition, 9% very poor, 24% poor, 51% fair, 15% good,
1% excellent. Cattle and calf conditions, 1% very poor, 6% poor, 31% fair,
49% good, 13% excellent. Cattle and calf death loss, 2% heavy, 42% average,
56% light. Calving progress, 10% complete. Sheep and lamb conditions, 0% very
poor, 4% poor, 24% fair, 60% good, 12% excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss,
1% heavy, 44% average, 55% light. Lambing progress, 15% complete. Shearing
progress, 25% complete. Hay and roughage supplies, 5% very short, 17% short,
67% adequate, 11% surplus. Stock water supplies, 16% very short, 32% short,
51% adequate, 1% surplus.
OHIO: Topsoil moisture for the month was 2% short, 50% adequate, and
48% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 3% short, 65% adequate, and
32% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 1% poor, 28% fair, 60% good,
and 11% excellent. The Statewide average temperature was 20.8 degrees,
7.5 degrees below normal. Precipitation averaged 1.71 inches Statewide,
0.06 inch above normal for February. Higher than normal precipitation and
lower than normal temperatures contributed to 4 inches or more of snow cover
in some areas of the State. Recent snow cover has protected winter wheat from
the very cold temperatures, which have reached sub-zero temperatures in some
areas of the State. There were no reports of issues with livestock due to
inclement weather, but some reporters expressed concerns that the ice and
snow, with mud to follow, could add struggles to livestock producers.
OKLAHOMA: For the month of February, rainfall totals averaged 0.54 inch
throughout the State, with the Southeast district recording the highest
precipitation at 1.04 inches and the Panhandle district recording the lowest
at 0.17 inch. According to the February 16, US Drought Monitor Report,
27 percent of the State was in the moderate to exceptional drought
categories, up 13 points from the previous year. Just 11 percent of the State
was in the moderate to exceptional drought categories, compared to 5 percent
from the previous year. Statewide temperatures averaged in the mid to high
20's, with the lowest recording of minus 22 degrees at Goodwell and Burbank
on Wednesday, February 16th and the highest recording of 80 degrees at
Goodwell on Wednesday, February 3rd. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions
were rated mostly adequate to short.
OREGON: Conditions throughout the State in February ranged from 50 degree
temperatures to ice storms. Ice storms caused significant damage to forest
stands, hazelnut and fruit tree orchards in Clackamas, Multnomah, and
Washington Counties. Some areas were still without power due to tree damage
along roads and power line corridors. Damage to crops was not readily
apparent. Benton and Lincoln Counties reported typical February temperatures;
however, freezing rain in Benton County damaged trees and crops when
temperatures dropped into the 20's. In Tillamook and Clatsop Counties, rainy
conditions persisted on the coast. Grass continued to grow well. Many
pastures and grass cover crops planted on corn silage fields looked good.
Most dairy herds continued to be confined. There were still beef operations
with animals in fields with well-drained soils. Gilliam and Hood River
Counties reported significant snowfalls, which brought the current moisture
levels up to average; however, they were still behind from last year. The
cold weather affected some cattle producers who were calving in mid-February.
Baker, Grant, Wheeler, and Malheur Counties received a good amount of snow.
Calving was difficult for a few nights with the snow and cold temperatures.
In Douglas, Jackson, and Josephine Counties, steady rains made fieldwork
messy. Soil moisture recharged. Snow pack was building. Winter pruning of
orchards and vineyards neared completion. Plum orchards were about two weeks
away from bloom. Cover crops and grain crops made good progress. Grains were
about two feet tall. Malheur County producers staged supplies and equipment
to start planting onions when field conditions permit.
PENNSYLVANIA: February's frequent snowfall and declining temperatures stood
in stark contrast to the previous month's reported mild weather. Fields
remained covered in snow with soil mostly frozen. Some buildings reported
damage due to intense snowfall. Some producers were catching up on paperwork,
collecting supplies, and planning for the upcoming 2021 crop year. Field
activities focused on manure spreading and feeding livestock.
SOUTH CAROLINA: February temperatures were on par with or down as much as
5.5 degrees Fahrenheit below historic averages. Total rainfall during the
month ranged from 2.5 inches to 11.7 inches. According to the U.S. Drought
Monitor, the State had minimal to no abnormally dry conditions throughout the
month. Heavy rain events in many areas began in December and continued
throughout February, keeping growers out of fields and forcing livestock
producers to manage pasture and feed areas more intensively to reduce mud and
increase drainage. Wet conditions delayed small grain and pasture fertilizer
topdressing. Wheat growth lagged and was in need of sunshine and warmth to
catch up to historic norms. Land preparations for corn planting was delayed.
Planting of vegetable greens was also delayed. Fall vegetables that were
planted on high ground were holding up well. Many producers reported
livestock health problems related to excessive rain and cool temperatures.
SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending February 21, 2021, topsoil moisture
supplies rated 19% very short, 43% short, 38% adequate, 0% surplus. Subsoil
moisture supplies rated 17% very short, 45% short, 38% adequate, 0% surplus.
Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 15% poor, 43% fair, 41% good, and
0% excellent.
TENNESSEE: For the week ending February 21, Days suitable 0.4. Topsoil
moisture 1% short, 47% adequate, 52% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% short,
61% adequate, 38% surplus. Winter wheat condition 5% poor 33% fair, 53% good,
9% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 3% very poor, 32% poor, 39% fair,
23% good, 3% excellent. Cattle condition 7% poor, 36% fair, 50% good,
7% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 20% short,
70% adequate, 9% surplus. Tennessee experienced increase moisture and
decreased temperatures. Freezing rain, ice and two snow events have impacted
the State. The conditions caused an increase in feeding cattle. Some reports
indicate calf loss and other livestock stress due to cold temperatures. Hay
and roughage supplies are mostly adequate. Winter wheat condition reported
mostly good. Cattle condition is currently reported mostly good.
TEXAS: Precipitation mostly ranged from 0.25 inch to upwards of 2.0 inches.
Isolated areas in the Upper Coast and East Texas received from 2.0 inches to
upwards of 4.0 inches. Small grains progressed due to increased moisture but
development varied across the State. Meanwhile, row crop producers in the
Lower Valley, the Upper Coast, South Central Texas, and South Texas began
early planting. Livestock condition continued poor to fair. Supplemental
feeding increased Statewide. Producers are waiting to fully assess the damage
that extreme temperatures brought across the State.
UTAH: This report for Utah is for the entire month of February, 2021. Topsoil
moisture 16% very short, 32% short, 50% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil
moisture 29% very short, 37% short, 32% adequate, 2% surplus. Pasture and
range condition 28% very poor, 38% poor, 28% fair, 5% good, 1% surplus.
Winter wheat condition 5% very poor, 16% poor, 55% fair, 21% good,
3% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 6% very short, 37% short,
53% adequate, 4% surplus. Stock water supplies 23% very short, 24% short,
52% adequate, 1% surplus. Cattle and calves condition 1% very poor, 7% poor,
30% fair, 59% good, 3% excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 4% poor,
40% fair, 53% good, 3% excellent. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for
cattle 84%. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for sheep 64%. Cows
calved 15%. Ewes lambed-farm flock 13%. Ewes lambed-range flock 5%. Colder
temperatures along with snow storms occurred throughout the State for the
month of February. Box Elder, Garfield, and Kane Counties report livestock
producers are busy with calving. Beaver County reports livestock producers
are having calving issues due to recent snow storms. As of February 21, 2021,
snowpack in Utah was 79 percent measured as percent of median snowfall.
VIRGINIA: For the week ending February 21, 2021, Topsoil moisture is
45% adequate and 55% surplus. Subsoil moisture is 57% adequate and
43% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 32% poor, 40% fair,
24% good, 2% excellent. Barley condition 1% very poor, 17% poor, 50% fair,
29% good, 3% excellent. Livestock condition 7% poor, 35% fair, 50% good,
8% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 11% very poor, 28% poor, 41% fair,
19% good, 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 2% very short, 13% short,
81% adequate, 4% surplus. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 8%. Virginia
experienced normal temperatures and above normal precipitation in February.
Winter storms have caused many problems for farmers; many areas were without
power for up to 10 days. Many fields are over saturated and muddy. Pasture
conditions have declined due to these conditions and farmers are having a
difficult time with livestock even with adequate hay supplies. Primary
activities for the month include equipment maintenance, repairs to fences and
machinery. Farmers are waiting for dryer weather so they can begin top
dressing.
WASHINGTON: The Statewide temperatures in Washington for the month of
February were below normal throughout the State. In western Washington, crops
were doing well. In Jefferson County, most areas received eight or more
inches of snow. The snow was gone within a week which caused no harm to
grass, winter wheat, and cover crops. In San Juan County, pasture lands and
seasonal streams were flowing at the maximum. Snow levels ranged from five to
twelve inches based on location in the islands. There was little field work
activity such as pruning that was done. Livestock producers struggled due to
excess mud, snow, and ice in a below freezing storm that occurred. Some CSA
farms saved their high-tunnels from collapse and continued to harvest cold
weather cole crops that kept local consumers ecstatic. In central Washington,
small amounts of snow covered winter wheat for a relatively short period of
time. Calving went well even with the snow and cold. Northeast Washington had
below normal amounts of snowfall. High winds and very cold conditions
resulted in negative degree wind chills along the Okanogan River Valley.
Orchards were running smudge pots and other techniques to combat the cold and
wind in cherry blocks. In east central Washington, snow and cold weather
occurred while crop conditions were normal. Sporadic warm spells took place
and with limited snow cover, winter wheat conditions remained normal. In
Southeast Washington, moisture was great and temperatures were on the rise.
Winter was mild and soil moisture remained stationery with no outstanding
situations to report.
WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending February 21, Topsoil moisture 5% short,
57% adequate, and 38% surplus. Subsoil moisture 4% short, 77% adequate, and
19% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 2% very short, 10% short,
82% adequate, and 6% surplus. Feed grain supplies 5% short, 93% adequate, and
2% surplus. Winter wheat condition 48% fair, 51% good, and 1% excellent.
Cattle and calves condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 32% fair, 59% good, and
5% excellent. Calving was 22% complete. Sheep and lambs condition 1% poor,
12% fair, 84% good, and 3% excellent. Lambing was 24% complete. Weather
conditions for the month were mostly cold with periods of rain, sleet and
snow. Farming activities for the month included planning for the next growing
season, monitoring hay supplies, calving and lambing.
WISCONSIN: February temperatures at the five major weather stations were all
below normal. They ranged from -10.9 degrees below normal in Milwaukee to -
16.3 degrees below normal in Madison. Average highs ranged from 12.4 degrees
in Eau Claire to 20.8 degrees in Milwaukee, while average lows ranged from -
7.2 degrees in Eau Claire to 7.4 degrees in Milwaukee. Precipitation totals
ranged from 0.45 inch in Eau Claire to 1.18 inches in Milwaukee. Milwaukee
received the most snowfall out of the major cities with 23.9 inches.
Eau Claire received the least, with 8.2 inches of snow for the month. Several
consecutive days of extremely cold temperatures made livestock chores
difficult but kept much of the snow base insulating dormant alfalfa and
winter wheat crops intact. Cattle feeding and manure hauling were the major
activities with a little snow removal in early February. Many are looking
forward to a warmer weather pattern forecasted for the end of the month.
WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of February 2021.
Topsoil moisture 48% very short, 39% short, 13% adequate. Subsoil moisture
45% very short, 39% short, 16% adequate. Winter wheat condition 4% very poor,
16% poor, 76% fair, 4% good. Calving progress 6% cows calved. Sheep and lamb
progress 5% ewes lambed, 2% sheep shorn. Hay and roughage supplies 21% very
short, 26% short, 51% adequate, 2% surplus. Livestock condition 8% poor,
32% fair, 59% good, 1% excellent. Stock water supplies 21% very short,
22% short, 57% adequate. Pasture and range condition 29% very poor, 30% poor,
31% fair, 10% good. February brought snow and cold temperatures to Wyoming.
Reports from Lincoln and Converse Counties noted that snow pack in the
mountains improved during the month, while reports from Goshen and Big Horn
Counties indicated little change in the cold, dry conditions and continued
concern of worsening drought conditions. Temperatures for the month were
slightly below average following a period of artic air that brought extremely
cold, below average temperatures to the majority of the State. Reports out of
Goshen County noted calving had started early; however, there were reports of
death-loss due to the below average temperatures. Reports from Converse
County indicated livestock were on full-feed rations. According to the United
States Drought Monitor for February 18, 2021, the amount of land rated as
abnormally dry was 6.5 percent, down from 6.9 percent last month. Moderate
drought was present across 27.7 percent of the State, a decrease from
34.5 percent last month. Severe drought covered 38.8 percent of the State,
compared to 28.6 percent last month, and extreme drought conditions covered
24.8 percent of the State, compared to 25.4 percent last month. Exceptional
drought conditions decreased from 0.4 percent last month to zero percent of
the State this month.
Statistical Methodology
Survey Procedures: Crop progress and condition estimates included in this
report are based on survey data collected in December, January, February, and
March. The non-probability crop progress and condition surveys include input
from approximately 4,000 respondents whose occupations provide them
opportunities to make visual observations and frequently bring them in
contact with farmers in their counties. Based on standard definitions, these
respondents subjectively estimate the progress of crops through various
stages of development, as well as the progress of producer activities. They
also provide subjective evaluations of crop and soil moisture conditions. Any
weather data mentioned in this report is provided by outside sources such as
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Agricultural
Weather Information Service (AWIS).
Information Contacts
Listed below are the commodity statisticians in the Crops Branch of the
National Agricultural Statistics Service to contact for additional
information. E-mail inquiries may be sent to nass@usda.gov
Lance Honig, Chief, Crops Branch.............................. (202) 720-2127
Chris Hawthorn, Head, Field Crops Section..................... (202) 720-2127
Irwin Anolik - Crop Weather.............................. (202) 720-7621
Joshua Bates - Oats, Soybeans............................ (202) 690-3234
David Colwell - Current Agricultural Industrial Reports.. (202) 720-8800
James Johanson - Barley, County Estimates, Hay........... (202) 690-8533
Greg Lemmons - Corn, Flaxseed, Proso Millet.............. (202) 720-9526
Jean Porter - Rye, Wheat................................. (202) 720-8068
Becky Sommer - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum.......... (202) 720-5944
John Stephens - Peanuts, Rice............................ (202) 720-7688
Travis Thorson - Sunflower, Other Oilseeds............... (202) 720-7369
Access to NASS Reports
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination against
its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the basis of race,
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Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department
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S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at
program.intake@usda.gov.Crop Progress - State Stories