April 24, 2009

For the week ending April 19, warmer temperatures and much needed moisture fell across Nebraska with the most significant amounts in the western half of the state, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska Field Office. They provide the following report on field activity and crop condition.

Corn planting was underway, but limited to 3% statewide. This is ahead of last year's 2% but behind the five-year average of 6%.

Wheat conditions rated 1% very poor, 4% poor, 27% fair, 59% good, and 9% excellent, well above the 55% good or excellent of last year. Wheat jointed was at 5%, near last year's 4% and eight days behind the 17% average.

Oat planting increased to 55%, near last year's 54% and a week behind the 72% average. Emerged oats was at 15%, ahead of last year's 13 but behind the 25% average.

Alfalfa rated 0% very poor, 2% poor, 25% fair, 68% good, and 5% excellent. Conditions are above last year's 69% good or excellent condition.

Pasture and range conditions rated 0% very poor, 6% poor, 29% fair, 60% good, and 5% excellent, above last year. Spring calving was 88% complete. Calf losses rated 12% below average, 85% average, and 3% above average.