Nebraska saw limited planting progress during the week ending April 12, 2026, with dry conditions continuing to dominate much of the state. There were 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 42% very short, 37% short, 21% adequate and 0% surplus, while subsoil moisture rated 42% very short, 39% short, 19% adequate and 0% surplus — signaling elevated drought risk.
Field Crops Report:
Winter wheat condition rated 18% very poor, 29% poor, 39% fair, 14% good, and 0% excellent.
Oats planted was 39%, slightly behind 41% last year and 44% for the five-year average. Emerged was 6%, behind 12% last year and 10% average.
Data for this news release were provided at the county level by USDA Farm Service Agency, Nebraska Extension, and other reporters across the state.
