THIS REPORT IS THE FIRST CROP AND WEATHER REPORT FOR THE 2013 GROWING SEASON. A SERIES OF WEEKLY CROP PROGRESS REPORTS WILL BE PUBLISHED EACH MONDAY AT 4:00 P.M. EDT THROUGHOUT THE CROP SEASON.
These reports will cover planting and harvesting activities, crop development, weather data, and timely crop management information provided by farmers, FSA, and Purdue University experts. For the earliest possible access, look for these reports on the internet shortly after the 4:00 P.M. release time. Our home page address is located at the bottom of this publication. Follow the links to view the pdf and rtf files.
FIELD CROPS REPORT
There were 2.8 days suitable for field work during the week. Heavy rain showers arrived mid week which left soils too muddy for field work across most of the state. Less than one percent of the intended corn acreage has been planted at this time compared with 21 percent last year and 6 percent for the 5-year average. A few scattered fields of soybeans have been reported to be planted.
Four percent of the winter wheat acreage is jointed compared with 53 percent last year and 24 percent for the 5-year average. Winter wheat condition is rated 67 percent good to excellent compared with 79 percent last year at this time.
Major activities during the week included: spring tillage, anhydrous ammonia applications, hauling grain to market, spreading fertilizer and manure, repairing and installing drainage tile and taking care of livestock.
LIVESTOCK, PASTURE AND RANGE REPORT
Livestock are reported to be in mostly good condition at this time. However, a higher than average calving mortality rate has been reported on some operations. Pasture condition is rated 49 percent good to excellent compared with 77 percent last year at this time. Hay supplies are rated 11 percent very short, 30 percent short, 58 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus.
Source; NASS