Rain and flooding hamper Minnesota crops

By Scout Nelson

Minnesota farmers experienced only 2.9 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending July 7, 2024, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Heavy rain and saturated soils continued to restrict access to fields throughout much of the state, and some livestock losses were reported due to flash flooding.

Topsoil moisture supplies were rated at 0 percent very short, 1 percent short, 48 percent adequate, and 51 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were similar, with 0 percent very short, 1 percent short, 51 percent adequate, and 48 percent surplus.

Corn silking in Minnesota reached 4 percent, which is five days behind last year and two days behind the five-year average. The corn condition was rated 59 percent good to excellent.

Soybeans blooming reached 32 percent, four days behind last year but equal to the five-year average. Soybeans began setting pods at 2 percent, with their condition rated 60 percent good to excellent.

Barley jointing was at 96 percent, with 70 percent headed and 5 percent coloring. The barley crop condition was rated 80 percent good to excellent.

Oats headed was at 77 percent, with 23 percent coloring. The oat condition was rated 76 percent good to excellent. Spring wheat was 76 percent headed, with 3 percent beginning to color. The condition of the spring wheat crop was rated 88 percent good to excellent.

Dry edible beans were 16 percent blooming, with their condition rated at 70 percent good to excellent.

The first cutting of alfalfa hay reached 90 percent, and the second cutting was at 23 percent. Sunflowers were 96 percent planted, with their condition rated 77 percent good to excellent.

All hay condition was rated 72 percent good to excellent, and pasture condition was rated 77 percent good to excellent. The potato crop condition was rated 89 percent good to excellent. The sugarbeet condition remained at 79 percent good to excellent.

Despite the challenges posed by heavy rains and saturated soils, Minnesota's farmers are working diligently to manage their crops and livestock. While the weather has impacted fieldwork and caused some losses, the overall condition of various crops remains relatively strong.

Continued monitoring and management will be essential as the growing season progresses to ensure the best possible outcomes for Minnesota agriculture.

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