We are continuing to track this year’s crop progress. The next report will be out later today.
Drought is a major factor affecting this year’s yields. The U.S. winter wheat has been heavily impacted by dry weather. At last check, just 29 percent of the acreage was in the top category. USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey tells us more.
“One crop that got its rainfall too late to really benefit in most areas is winter wheat. We still see 54 percent in drought at end of May; however, that is down from a mid-march peak of 73%, but especially in those southern production areas: Texas, Oklahoma, and even extending northward into the Central Plains, many of those recent rains coming just a little too late to really greatly benefit the crop.”
Drought conditions are improving for other crops in Midwestern production areas, too. Unfortunately, the opposite issue, too much rain, is taking its toll on producers there.
Related:
The majority of U.S. winter wheat is in drought; relief is top priority for USDA
Winter Wheat Worries: Conditions are lowest in 26 years
Forecasters are watching how drought conditions continue to negatively impact winter wheat
