Crops on Track in North Dakota: Despite Western Drought Reports

Even with our inch of rain last week, the North Dakota Department of Agriculture says the soil moisture is still in good shape.

According to NDSU extension agents, barley harvest started last week and soybeans are in the flowering pod stage.

Small grain planting started earlier than normal this year because of the weather.

Corn is doing well with the moisture in the ground but parts of western North Dakota are still showing signs of drought.

NDSU Extension Agent John Kringler said,”I think in this area other than a pocket here and there, we have adequate access moisture, and there are some areas out west that could use some of the rains.”

The State Agriculture Department also says spring wheat is still maturing and more than 80 percent of the crop is rated in good to excellent condition.