Southeast South Dakota Crop Report: April 25, 2012

Posted on April 25, 2012 by Shannon Latham, Vice President

Little field work was done last week as farmers waited for the fields to dry across areas in the state. With this being said, however, farmers doubled their corn crop progress from 4% last week to around 8% this week. Rainfall covered much of my region helping overcome short- and long-term precipitation deficits. Soil temperatures increased and are within a few degrees above or below 50°. Additional precipitation has been forecasted from Friday and into the weekend with amounts up to 1.5 inches.

Northeast South Dakota Crop Report: April 18, 2012

Posted on April 19, 2012 by Shannon Latham, Vice President

Northeast South Dakota farmers began planting this last week. Due to 4 inches of rain over the weekend and additional rain coming this week it is leaving growers out of the fields for now. Soil temperatures have decreased slightly over the past week with cooler temeratures also.

Across the State less than 4% of the corn is planted as of the first of the week. The 10 day forecast looks like opportunites will be there next week for growers to really get going with corn planting.

Southeast South Dakota Crop Report: April 18, 2012

Posted on April 19, 2012 by Shannon Latham, Vice President

The arrival of a widespread spring rain was welcome across the state. Several days of intermittent rains last week amount to about 2.5 inches of much need moisture. Most parts of my region received over an inch, which will help reduce soil deficits that are still apparent in many areas.

Unfortunately, cold temperatures also hit the area last week. Overnight lows in the mid-20s caused some damage to alfalfa. In about 10 days, growers here will know more about the conditions of their crop. Click here for tips on accessing alfalfa damage. It may be necessary to cut the crop to regenerate the second cutting.

With the April 10th crop insurance deadline past, corn planting has progressed to 4%. Soil temperatures are in the low 50-degree mark. Next week farmers will likely be planting in full force and if the weather cooperates temperature. Remember to stay safe out there!