By Scout Nelson
Minnesota farmers had 2.9 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending June 30, 2024, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. While some parts of the state experienced a break from the rain, others received several inches, raising concerns about flooding.
Fieldwork included pesticide applications where farmers could access fields, but livestock losses were reported due to the flooding.
Topsoil moisture supplies were rated 0 percent very short, 1 percent short, 46 percent adequate, and 53 percent surplus.
Subsoil moisture supplies were rated 0 percent very short, 2 percent short, 49 percent adequate, and 49 percent surplus, indicating sufficient moisture levels across the state.
Corn began silking at 3 percent, one day behind last year but four days ahead of the five-year average. Corn condition was rated 62 percent good to excellent.
Soybeans emerged reached 97 percent, with 19 percent of the soybean crop blooming. Soybean condition was also rated 62 percent good to excellent.
Barley jointing was at 93 percent, with 55 percent of the crop headed and 2 percent coloring. The condition of the barley crop was rated 80 percent good to excellent.
Oats jointing reached 96 percent, 65 percent were headed, and 12 percent were coloring. Oats condition was rated 77 percent good to excellent.
Spring wheat was 61 percent headed, with the condition of the crop rising to 86 percent good to excellent. Dry edible beans were 96 percent emerged and 8 percent blooming, with the condition rated at 75 percent good to excellent.
The first cutting of alfalfa hay reached 87 percent, and the second cutting was at 14 percent. Sunflowers were 91 percent planted, and their condition was rated 75 percent good to excellent.
All hay condition was rated 71 percent good to excellent, and pasture condition was rated 76 percent good to excellent. The condition of the potato crop improved to 90 percent good to excellent. Sugarbeet condition was 79 percent good to excellent.
Overall, despite the challenges posed by mixed weather conditions and flooding, Minnesota’s crops showed resilience and maintained mostly good to excellent conditions. Farmers continue to manage their crops and livestock diligently, ensuring progress and productivity across the state.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Minnesota, Weather