Crop Progress - State Stories ISSN: 2470-9816 Released March 26, 2024, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ALABAMA: March temperatures were generally higher than historical averages. Temperatures ranged from 0.9 degree higher than normal in Tuscaloosa County to 4.3 degrees higher than normal in Marshall County. Much of the State experienced rainy and windy weather throughout March. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 4.0 inches in Marshall County to 7.6 inches in Marengo County. The rainfall helped further alleviate drought conditions across the State. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 0.2 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 29.2 percent at the month's beginning. Despite the warmer weather, reporters noted that winter crops were in poor to fair condition due to freeze events throughout the winter and drought conditions experienced last fall. Prevented planted wheat was reported in those areas with extreme drought. Operators began to prepare fields for spring planting with fertilizer and lime. Reporters noted that cattle producers still had to feed supplemental hay due to drought conditions last fall. ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE ARIZONA: This report for Arizona is for the week ending March 24, 2024. By week's end, 3 percent of Arizona cotton had been planted, 9 percentage points below the State's 5-year average, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Sixty-seven percent of Arizona's barley had headed, up 25 percentage points from the previous year. Arizona barley was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 3 percent of the crop rated fair. Sixty-six percent of the State's Durum wheat had headed, up 32 percentage points from the previous year's levels. Durum wheat was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 6 percent of the crop rated fair. Alfalfa hay harvest continued to take place on more than 75 percent of the crop's acreage throughout the State. Arizona's alfalfa crop was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 7 percent of the crop rated fair. Pasture and range conditions throughout the State slightly improved when compared to that of the previous week's report. Eighteen percent of the State's pasture and rangeland was rated very poor, 7 percent was rated poor, 24 percent was rated fair, 40 percent was rated good, and 11 percent was rated excellent. Reports from southeastern counties stated that annual forages were now abundant throughout areas of lower elevation. A report from Apache and Navajo Counties also stated that most cattle can still be found on winter pastures. Topsoil moisture levels remained mostly adequate, with 11 percent rated very short, 9 percent rated short, 72 percent rated adequate, and 8 percent rated surplus. Subsoil moisture levels followed a similar trend. Over the past week, measurable precipitation was experienced across much of the State, however, counties along Arizona's western border, in addition to north-central Coconino County, were the exception and remained relatively dry. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the White Mountains, as well as areas along the central Mogollon Rim, received most of the precipitation, accumulating approximately 2.25 inches, while other areas of Arizona received anywhere from 0.25 to 1.50 inches of total precipitation. A reporter from Graham and Greenlee Counties stated that hail was reported in some areas, but no damages were reported. The drought information statements for northern, as well as southeast Arizona, were both rescinded as the State received, on average, 0.75 inch of above normal precipitation since January 1. According to the National Weather Service, Arizona experienced several widespread rain events over the last 30 days. Despite recent precipitation, the seasonal outlook for April, May, and June shows equal odds for either above, near, or below normal seasonal mean temperatures and seasonal total precipitation apart from southeast Arizona where the seasonal total precipitation outlook is leaning below normal and northeast Arizona where the seasonal mean temperature outlook is now leaning above normal. Subsequently, Arizona's seasonal drought outlook shows that conditions are expected to persist throughout central and southeastern regions of the State. Streamflow conditions in portions of the Lower San Pedro and Colorado River Basins continues to be well below normal. However, conditions throughout the State have greatly improved as snowpack has begun to melt throughout areas of higher elevation resulting in all of Arizona's remaining river basin's streamflow conditions to be rated from much above normal to normal. As of March 19, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed a slight improvement when compared to that of the previous report. Abnormally dry conditions (D0) spanned 40 percent of the State, moderate drought (D1) enveloped 29 percent, severe drought (D2) encompassed 11 percent, and extreme drought (D3) remained at 2 percent of the State's total land area. Arizona once again remained free of exceptional (D4) drought. Over the past week, temperatures across much of the State decreased according to the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC). Daytime highs throughout Arizona ranged from 8 degrees below to 4 degrees above normal and ranged from the mid-40s in Coconino County to the mid-80s across southwestern regions of the State. Overnight lows ranged from 5 degrees below to 4 degrees above normal and ranged from 25 to 45 degrees across northern and eastern counties, whereas counties within the Sonoran Desert experienced lows of 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. ARKANSAS: For the week ending March 24, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies were 1% very short, 6% short, 53% adequate, and 40% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 1% very short, 6% short, 54% adequate, and 39% surplus. There were 5.0 days suitable for fieldwork during the week. Late March brought dry weather which allowed for row crop field tillage. Cool season annuals and fescue were growing which gave some added grazing. Some corn, soybeans, and small amounts of rice were planted in various areas where the fields permitted. Fifty-eight percent of the winter wheat was in good to excellent condition. CALIFORNIA: For the week ending March 24 - Days suitable for fieldwork 7.0. Topsoil moisture 80% adequate and 20% surplus. Subsoil moisture 80% adequate and 20% surplus. Winter wheat condition 25% good and 75% excellent. Pasture and range condition 5% fair, 60% good, and 35% excellent. As of March 22, snowpack content ranged from 19.3 to 31.1 inches in the Northern, Southern, and Central Sierras, slightly below normal for this time of year. As of March 21, around 95% of the State was not in drought. Alfalfa was growing well as temperatures began to rise during the month. Some fields were cut and baled. Winter wheat, barley, and oats for grain and forage neared maturity. Continued rain aided the growth of grain fields. Some aerial pesticide applications were made on forage crops. In Tulare County, broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots, celery, and cabbage continued to develop. Daikon radish fields approached harvest. Lettuce, onions, garlic, and some peas have been planted. Celery and lettuce were harvested along the Central Coast. Carrots were harvested in the Imperial Valley. Avocado harvest began in Ventura County. Rains had a positive impact on the trees and fruit. Grape vineyards were cleaned, and new growth was observed. Lemons, navel oranges, tangerines, pummelos, mandarins, blood oranges, and grapefruits continued to be harvested. Standing water from rain hindered picking in some areas. Citrus trees were treated for pests. Peach, plum, and cherry trees blossomed. Bloom sprays were done in some orchards. Bud swelling was seen on some pistachio and walnut trees. Almond trees were blooming. Bees were pollinating almond orchards, and some hives were placed in stone fruit orchards for cross-pollination. Olives were pruned. Blueberry harvest began. Sheep grazed in orchards to minimize weeds. Calving season calmed and young calves joined other cattle in fields. Steers were gaining weight with plentiful forage available. COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the entire month of March 2024. Topsoil moisture 9% very short, 15% short, 61% adequate, 15% excellent. Subsoil moisture 9% very short, 10% short, 66% adequate, 15% excellent. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 2% poor, 28% fair, 62% good, 6% excellent. Livestock condition 2% very poor, 3% poor, 9% fair, 75% good, 11% excellent. Pasture and range condition 10% very poor, 12% poor, 15% fair, 60% good, 3% excellent. Above average temperatures were widespread, while moisture was limited to the western slope and high country last week, according to the Mountain Region Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor released on March 21, drought conditions were present across 8 percent of the State, down from over 36 percent a year ago. Drought within the San Luis Valley improved to moderate, while the western portion of the State was abnormally dry. Calving and lambing is still limited in northwestern counties. According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA, snowpack in the region was 109 percent of median snowfall. Northeastern counties received minimal moisture and experienced above average temperatures last week. Reports showed planting of the onion and sugarbeet crop was underway in the area. In the San Luis Valley, barley planting had begun, and fieldwork advanced to prepare cropland for planting. Calving and lambing made significant progress, and pastures were in good condition. Reporters noted that producers had been cutting potato seed. In southeastern counties, moisture conditions varied greatly, with areas of Custer, Huerfano, Las Animas, and Pueblo Counties receiving over half an inch of moisture, while Baca and Prowers Counties remained primarily dry. Southwestern counties received good moisture last week, with over half an inch reported in many areas according to the National Weather Service. Reporters noted soil moisture had improved and warm temperatures had started perennial grass green up. As of March 25, 2024, snowpack in Colorado was 108 percent measured as percent of median snowfall according to the NRCS, USDA. The Southwest and San Luis Valley were 105 and 109 percent, respectively. Stored feed supplies were rated 6 percent very short, 13 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. Cattle death loss was 28 percent average and 72 percent light. Sheep death loss was 12 percent average and 88 percent light. DELAWARE: March temperatures averaged in the mid to high 40s. Precipitation was above normal for this time of the year. Fertilizer application to small grains continued, as weather allowed. Winter annuals, cover crops, radishes, and turnips were in good condition. No unusual situations were reported. FLORIDA: March temperatures were slightly higher than historical averages, with average temperatures ranging from 61.7°F to 79.5°F. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.7 inch of rain in Saint Lucia County to 6 inches in Okaloosa County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 1.4 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 3.3 percent at the month's beginning. Most of the State received moderate to heavy amounts of rainfall throughout March. Pasture conditions remained mostly fair to good and seem to have improved since February. Many farmers reported that the rain received and warmer temperatures have improved pasture and range conditions. As pasture conditions improved, availability of grazing also improved. In areas that did not receive adequate amounts of precipitation, livestock were supplemented with hay and water. Overall, cattle remained in mostly fair to good condition. West central Florida experienced heavy rain, wind, and hail mid-month which resulted in total crop losses for some of the strawberry and melon producers. Sugarcane operations progressed throughout March and is neared completion. Citrus grove activities throughout the month included spraying pesticides and nutritionals, spraying herbicide, fertilizing, mowing, hedging, topping, removal of dead trees, replanting young trees, and general grove maintenance. Rice planting progressed normally throughout the month. Other crops that were planted and harvested include tomatoes, green beans, yellow squash, zucchini, sweet corn, eggplant, peppers, boniato, bitter melon, other Asian vegetables, avocado, and other tropical fruits. GEORGIA: March temperatures ranged from 1.1 to 7.0 degrees warmer than historical averages depending on location. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 2.8 inches in Chatham County to 9.4 inches in Taylor County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the State had no drought classification by month's end, compared to 4 percent abnormally dry at the beginning of the month. Weather across the State was similar to previous months with mild temperatures and adequate rainfall. The third week of the month did see a frost across some parts of the State. Many peaches had already begun blooming due to the warmer temperatures in late February into early March. No significant damage was reported to peaches or berries. Winter grazing and cool season pastures were continuing to improve with the spring weather. Livestock conditions were mostly good across the State. Although hay supplies have been tight, good rainfall and mild temperatures throughout the month have allowed local pastures and hayfields to begin spring growth and reduced the need for supplemental feeding. Winter wheat was noted to be growing well and beginning to head out. Fields were applied side dressing of nitrogen and herbicides as conditions permitted. Some wheat across western Georgia was noted to have rust and aphis pressure. Vidalia onions were noted to be progressing well with very few downy mildew issues so far this year. Some corn planting began over the last week; however, most was delayed due to wet field conditions. Fields were being burned down in preparation for spring planting. HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE IDAHO: The average temperatures in Idaho for March were above normal in the north and below normal in the south. Accumulated precipitation was below normal in the north but normal in the south. Elmore and Owyhee Counties reported average crop conditions as the dormancy period ends. Buds were present on most trees, but leaf breaks had not yet occurred. Ranges and pastures had slowly begun growing, but growth this past week was more than average. Weed and pest pressure were higher than average due to the lack of sub-freezing temperatures during winter. Calving season experienced milder conditions. Jerome and Twin Falls Counties reported farmers were back in the fields. A few acres of spring cereals and sugarbeets were planted. Other major activities included applying fertilizer, heavy field tillage, and hauling manure. There appeared to be adequate irrigation water for this year. Ranges and pasture grasses were starting to break dormancy. There were a few reports of heavy vole damage in fields across the valley. The weather stayed suitable for livestock. Bonneville and Madison Counties reported that the fields were still too wet to work. Clark, Fremont, and Madison Counties reported cold weather, with snow covering the winter wheat. Bannock, Bingham, and Butte Counties reported rising temperatures and some light flooding. ILLINOIS: For the month of March 2024. Topsoil moisture supply was rated 6% very short, 38% short, 53% adequate, and 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 14% very short, 31% short, 53% adequate, and 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 2% very poor, 7% poor, 16% fair, 64% good, and 11% excellent. Statewide, the average temperature was 45.7 degrees, 6.1 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 1.87 inches, 0.42 inch below normal. INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of March was 4% very short, 20% short, 71% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 6% very short, 25% short, 65% adequate, and 4% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 21% fair, 63% good, and 12% excellent. Statewide temperatures averaged 45.2 degrees, 6.0 degrees above normal for the month of March. Statewide average precipitation was 2.14 inches, 0.36 inch below normal. Winter wheat condition remained stable compared to the previous month. Slightly lower than average precipitation as well as windy conditions resulted in occasional instances of brush fires. Some reports stated that bud break had already occurred in fruit trees. Other activities for the week included fertilizer and herbicide applications, grain hauling, feeding livestock, calving, and planting preparations. IOWA: The first half of March brought above average temperatures and little precipitation to the State. However, the second half of March saw cooler temperatures and a bit more precipitation. Activities have continued to be primarily fertilizer and manure applications with more tillage reported. Continued reports of oats being sown were received. Overall, livestock conditions have been decent, with reports of lambing and calving. Comments suggested slightly more livestock stress in March when compared to February due to the drastic changes in weather and mud in some areas. Grain movement was reported as slow for March due to current grain prices. Burn bans and water conservation orders are in place in some of the State's counties. The lack of moisture continues to be a concern for the State's farm operators as they edge closer to planting their 2024 crops. KANSAS: For the week ending March 24, 2024, days suitable 6.4. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 10% very short, 35% short, 51% adequate, 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 12% very short, 36% short, 51% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 5% very poor, 8% poor, 34% fair, 45% good, 8% excellent. Winter wheat jointed 7%. KENTUCKY: March brought above normal temperatures and well below normal precipitation. The trend of higher-than-average temperatures continues, as this past winter was the eighth warmest ever recorded in Kentucky. Precipitation for the month totaled 2.00 inches, 1.43 inches below normal. Precipitation totals by climate division, West 1.29 inches, Central 1.95 inches, Bluegrass 2.51 inches, and East 2.26 inches, which was -2.35, -1.66, -0.59, and -1.10 inches from normal respectively. Temperatures averaged 51 degrees for the month, 5 degrees above normal. The overall condition of winter wheat has increased slightly across the State, especially in areas receiving adequate rainfall. Currently wheat condition is rated 1% very poor, 1% poor, 10% fair, 70% good, and 18% excellent. The current hay supply is rated as 10% very short, 35% short, 51% adequate, and 4% surplus. Livestock condition is rated as 1% very poor, 7% poor, 25% fair, 55% good, and 12% excellent. LOUISIANA: For the week ending March 24, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies were 1% very short, 4% short, 67% adequate, and 28% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 0% very short, 3% short, 80% adequate, and 17% surplus. There were 2.9 days suitable for fieldwork during the week. While pastures have flourished because of regular rain, the rain has delayed field work in many parts of the State. Rice, corn, and vegetables that were planted in early spring have experienced delayed growth due to the cold, wet soil. Crawfish catches continue to improve. However, many producers are abandoning crawfish to plant crops. Operators are hoping for a break in rain so that they can spend more time working fields. MARYLAND: March was characterized by wet weather. Temperatures varied from below average to average. Precipitation was above normal for this time of year. Soil moisture levels continued to be in good condition. Pasture and range condition is fair. Small grains were reported in good condition. Farmers continued applying fertilizer and nitrogen to fields in preparation for spring plantings. MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 3% very short, 12% short, 71% adequate and 14% surplus. Subsoil moisture 4% very short, 17% short, 66% adequate, and 13% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 6% poor, 34% fair, 49% good, and 10% excellent. Precipitation for the month of March to date averaged 1.90 inches throughout the State, 0.24 inch above normal. Temperature for the month of March to date averaged 36.3 degrees, 6.9 degrees above normal. March brought extremely variable weather. Some producers were concerned for crop health with temperatures consistently fluctuating. In the southeast, many areas had already seen winter wheat breaking dormancy. Maple syrup season was reported as average and was wrapping up due to warmer temperatures. Other activities throughout the month included spring soil testing, fertilizer application, and tending livestock. MINNESOTA: The mild winter weather trend continued into March with warm temperatures and little precipitation until near the end of the month when snow and rain hit much of the State. Tilling and fertilizer applications took place the first three weeks of the month. Some farmers have begun planting small grains and cover crops, and fields were beginning to green up. Pastures have also been greening up. Calving and lambing were in progress. MISSISSIPPI: For the week ending March 24, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies were 0% very short, 7% short, 72% adequate, and 21% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 1% very short, 9% short, 76% adequate, and 14% surplus. There were 3.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week. Overall, warmer temperatures at the beginning of March allowed producers to start planting corn and watermelon. March brought moderate rainfall. Producers that had not begun planting were reporting soil preparations, such as soil samples and soil amendments. Pasture conditions are improving with the warmer weather. All major row crops are in fair to good condition. MISSOURI: For the week ending March 24, 2024. Topsoil moisture 7% very short, 35% short, 58% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture 14% very short, 33% short, 53% adequate, and 0% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 2% poor, 27% fair, 61% good, and 10% excellent. Statewide, precipitation averaged 2.01 inches for the month of March, 0.49 inch below average. Temperatures averaged 49.2 degrees, 5.6 degrees above normal. MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the entire month of March 2024. Topsoil moisture 10% very short, 43% short, 47% adequate. Subsoil moisture 19% very short, 60% short, 21% adequate. Winter wheat breaking dormancy 13%. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 48% fair, 44% good, 4% excellent. Winter wheat wind damage 50% none, 31% light, 19% moderate. Winter wheat freeze damage 63% none, 23% light, 12% moderate, 2% severe. Snow cover 17% very poor, 31% poor, 35% fair, 14% good, 3% excellent. Pasture and range condition 13% very poor, 39% poor, 46% fair, 2% good. Grazing accessibility 59% open, 21% difficult, 20% closed. Cows calved 15%. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 97%. Ewes lambed 12%. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 99%. The month of March brought mostly above normal temperatures and varying precipitation to Montana, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Much of the State experienced temperatures ranging from near average to about 4 degrees above average, according to data from the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC). Isolated areas in Richland and Big Horn Counties sustained average temperatures as many as 8 degrees above normal. Various north-central, western, and southern portions of the State experienced temperatures, on average, running about 2 degrees below the norm. Much of eastern, north-central, and western Montana received precipitation in a range of about 0.75 inch below average to normal. The remainder of the State received precipitation reaching only as much as about 0.75 inch above normal. The drought lingered on according to the U.S. Drought Monitor report released on March 21, 2024. The amount of land rated drought free stood at 5 percent, compared with 12 percent as reported on February 22, 2014. Abnormal dryness was found in 53 percent of the State, up 8 percentage points. Moderate drought stood at 25 percent, compared with 22 percent as found in the report for February 22. Severe drought conditions fell to 16 percent, down 4 percentage points. Extreme drought conditions were unchanged at 1 percent. The very dry conditions in Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli Counties provided excellent conditions for calving. Some operators, however, reported scours in calves due to the warmer days and colder nights. Pneumonia was also a concern in the new calves because of the temperature fluctuations. Fields were open for dragging and tilling. Recent storms provided much needed relief from the dry conditions. Golden Valley and Musselshell Counties reported 3-4 inches of snow over the past weekend. Wibaux County received snow in a range of 4-6 inches. Winter storms in Valley County the third week of March also provided some much-needed moisture as well. NEBRASKA: For the week ending March 24, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies rated 13% very short, 34% short, 52% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 14% very short, 45% short, 39% adequate, and 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 2% very poor, 4% poor, 28% fair, 54% good, and 12% excellent. NEVADA: For the week ending March 24 - Days suitable for fieldwork 7.0. Topsoil moisture 25% short, 40% adequate, and 35% surplus. Subsoil moisture 10% short, 65% adequate, and 25% surplus. Pasture and range condition 35% fair, 20% good, and 45% excellent. As of March 19, the US Drought Monitor showed 85% of the State was not in drought. Operations began sending water orders to the State's irrigation district. Hay fields started to turn green. NEW ENGLAND: Throughout the month of March, New England temperatures were largely warmer than average at the start but have cooled off later in the month throughout the region. Heavy snowfall stretched across the region on Saturday March 23. Many areas saw totals of 8 to 12 inches of snow, but there was a localized area that saw more than two feet. The combination of sleet, freezing rain, and heavy wet snow took down trees. According to Connecticut and Rhode Island reporters, rain on Saturday, March 23, brought an additional three plus inches of rain. Farmers are starting to clear downed trees blown over by wind and repair ruts in fields, but muddy conditions persist. Manure storages are higher than normal due to fall field conditions. Farmers expect that prices for inputs such as fertilizer will decrease, and fuel will be more stable in the coming year. According to a Maine reporter, the March 23 storm brought 18-25 inches of snow. Prior to that the fields were bare. Unusually heavy snowfall has delayed what would otherwise be the start of agricultural activities. Farmers were starting to go out and assess the status of their fields and manure spreading was due to start soon, but with about two feet of snow on the ground that is delayed until the thaw comes. According to a Massachusetts reporter, the cranberry crop is still dormant. Currently the thermal models show accumulation of only 39 degrees of growing degree days (GDD). To start monitoring the buds, a GDD of 100 must be obtained and this corresponds to the white bud stage of growth. At this point most growers are testing their irrigation sprinkler system to ensure it is working properly for the coming spring frost season. According to New Hampshire reporter, maple producers that started early had a decent but short run. Mud was preventing farmers from getting prep work done for spring and now they are buried in late deep snow. According to a Vermont reporter, March continued the trend of higher-than-average temperatures for this winter. The area received 18 inches of snow this past weekend which was the largest snowfall of the season. Vermont maple producers are reporting a strong season despite the mild winter. The winter manure spreading ban will be lifted April 1, but farmers are still not allowed to spread manure on snow covered or frozen ground. Winter markets were still going strong, especially those with a variety of vegetables on hand. Farmers attended meetings, made marketing arrangements, and were planning for the upcoming 2024 growing season. Fruit growers were finishing pruning activities. Greenhouse growers were preparing for Easter and Mother's Day. NEW JERSEY: In March, there was a high amount of precipitation and wind. Most soil was too wet to work, with flooding in some areas. Temperatures were highly variable, with periods of warm followed by below freezing temperatures, causing early but slowing blooms in fruit and berries. Spring season vegetables were prepared for transplantation in the coming weeks, with some planting of lettuces and greens already complete. NEW MEXICO: This report for New Mexico is for the month of March 2024. Topsoil moisture 46% very short, 42% short, 10% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 44% very short, 41% short, 14% adequate, 1% surplus. Chile planted 10%. Cows calved 44%. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 87%. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 25% poor, 54% fair, 14% good, 5% excellent. Cattle condition 4% very poor, 22% poor, 54% fair, 14% good, 6% excellent. Ewes lambed 36%. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 65%. Sheep and lambs condition 3% very poor, 23% poor, 58% fair, 15% good, 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 38% very short, 41% short, 20% adequate, 1% surplus. Stock water supplies 43% very short, 31% short, 25% adequate, 1% surplus. With the onset of spring, New Mexico producers generally saw warmer and wetter days in March, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. After a long harvest season, chile producers were back in the fields this month for planting, with progress reaching 10 percent complete by March 24. Calving advanced to 44 percent complete, up from 12 percent from last month. Ewes lambed increased to 36 percent, up from just 5 percent complete last month. Most cattle and sheep were observed to be in fair condition, coming in at 53 percent and 58 percent respectively. Measurable moisture was recorded throughout New Mexico during the month of March. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) data, counties across the State accumulated between 0.1 inch and 4 inches of precipitation in March. The Rio Arriba-Sandoval County border measured 3-4 inches of precipitation, with the northern part of Rio Arriba County seeing up to 6 inches in some areas. Counties in the central and northwest parts of the State saw above average precipitation during March, while precipitation in the southeast corner of New Mexico was below normal, despite cooler-than-average temperatures. In Mora County, reporters said adequate moisture led to better snowpack and higher soil moisture content. However, reporters in Union County said fire danger remained extreme, with spring winds gusting up to 65 miles per hour. Average temperatures during March were generally normal except for the southeast where temperatures dipped 1 to 5 degrees below normal, and isolated areas in the northwest were 1 to 3 degrees above normal. According to the United States Drought Monitor for March 19, exceptional drought (D4) remained unchanged from 3.5 percent last month. The worst of the drought conditions remained in Eddy County and parts of Chaves County. Extreme drought (D3) was noted across 15 percent of the State, severe drought (D2) covered 25 percent, moderate drought (D1) covered 42 percent, and abnormal dryness (D0) covered 13 percent. Drought-free conditions were present in 2 percent of the State, down from 3 percent last month. NEW YORK: March was characterized with erratic weather and temperature swings. Producers had concern over perennial field crops as well as honeybees while fruit growers were worried over the possibility of a cold snap as early buds had emerged. Maple producers also had concern due to low sap production and warming trends. The lack of a true winter and its potential impact on soil replenishment caused additional concern as some areas reported abnormally warm to abnormally cold spells with record snowfall in some isolated areas. Operators primarily spread manure and monitored fields. NORTH CAROLINA: For the week ending March 24,2024 - Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 6% short, 83% adequate and 10% surplus. Topsoil moisture 4% short, 81% adequate and 15% surplus. Barley condition 5% very poor, 13% poor, 32% fair, 37% good and 13% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 9% very short, 22% short, 64% adequate and 5% surplus. Oats condition 25% fair, 60% good and 15% excellent. Pasture and range condition 8% very poor, 11% poor, 39% fair, 37% good and 5% excellent. Winter wheat condition 6% poor, 26% fair, 62% good and 6% excellent. Throughout March, recent rains have replenished soil moisture reserves. Pastures are starting to get back in shape to be grazed and still have adequate hay supplies. NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending March 24, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies, 17% very short, 32% short, 49% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies, 16% very short, 38% short, 45% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition, 2% very poor, 5% poor, 41% fair, 52% good, 0% excellent. Cattle and calf conditions, 0% very poor, 3% poor, 18% fair, 69% good, 10% excellent. Cattle and calf death loss, 1% heavy, 51% average, 48% light. Calving progress, 31% complete. Sheep and lamb conditions, 0% very poor, 2% poor, 22% fair, 66% good, 10% excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss, 2% heavy, 53% average, 45% light. Lambing progress, 50% complete. Shearing progress, 67% complete. Hay and roughage supplies, 2% very short, 10% short, 82% adequate, 6% surplus. Stock water supplies, 6% very short, 19% short, 74% adequate, 1% surplus. OHIO: Topsoil moisture for the month was 1% very short, 8% short, 81% adequate, 10% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 2% very short, 15% short, 76% adequate, 7% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 0% very poor, 2% poor, 28% fair, 58% good, 12% excellent, stable with the previous month's ratings. The Statewide average temperature was 44.0 degrees, 5.9 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 2.30 inches Statewide, 0.01 inch below normal for March. A series of mid-month storm systems delivered severe weather to western and central counties. Multiple tornadoes were confirmed in western counties, with property damage and livestock losses reported. Favorable soil conditions facilitated early season fieldwork as farmers anticipated the start of row crop planting activities. Reporters described topdressing winter wheat stands along with manure, fertilizer, and lime applications. Reporters remarked on improved pasture condition, supported by March's sufficient precipitation and mild temperatures. OKLAHOMA: For the month of March, rainfall totals in Oklahoma averaged 1.73 inches. According to the March 19 US Drought Monitor Report, drought conditions were rated 44 percent abnormally dry to exceptional drought, down 1 point from the previous week. Additionally, 4 percent of the State was in the moderate drought to exceptional drought category, unchanged from the previous week. Statewide, temperatures averaged in the lower to upper 50's. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly adequate to short. OREGON: Temperatures ranged from average to above average. The reprieve from constant precipitation in Columbia, Multnomah, and Washington Counties allowed some field work to get done. Blueberries and small fruits perked up. Winter damage to crops and field conditions was minimal. Benton and Lincoln Counties experienced warm, sunny weather last week, which allowed pasture grass to progress. Many local farms were finishing up calving season and were in the middle of lambing. Clatsop and Tillamook Counties reported above average temperatures. Field activities consisted of manure application and haying. Field activity increased for spring grass plantings. Hood River, Sherman, Gilliam, Wasco, and Wheeler Counties reported crops were looking well and received a lot of moisture. Reports mentioned operations were assessing if there was any damage from the cold weather, stripe rust, or any other plant disease. Fields had dried out enough that people started spraying and mowing stubble. The warmer weather was very beneficial to pastures and crops. Lake County reported recent precipitation. Livestock and irrigation water conditions were given a positive outlook for the upcoming grazing and crop season. Umatilla County reported dry conditions and needed more moisture to keep dryland crops in good condition. Malheur County reported warm, dry conditions, allowing for accelerated planting and fieldwork. Ranchers were preparing to move cattle out to pasture. PENNSYLVANIA: The State overall experienced warmer spring weather this month with good moisture. The warmer weather and longer daylight hours encouraged topdressing fertilizer and manure hauling when conditions allowed. Cover crops, small grains, alfalfa, and some winter weeds were growing aggressively. Some fields were sprayed with herbicides to help control the weeds. Other producers were getting ready to start planting small grains. Adams County recently experienced below normal temperatures during the day and at night, which has some stone fruit producers worried for fruits like plums and apricots that were already in bloom. SOUTH CAROLINA: March temperatures ranged from 1.5 to 6.5 degrees warmer than historical averages depending on location. Total rainfall during the month ranged from 3.7 inches in Horry County to 10.2 inches in Charleston County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the State had no drought classification by month's end, compared to 10.8 percent abnormally dry at the beginning of the month. South Carolina saw good rainfall amounts and mostly mild temperatures during the month. Fields were being prepared for spring planting. Some corn fields were beginning to be planted, however wet soil conditions delayed planting in many areas. Small grains were noted to be improving due to the rainfall, warmer temperatures, and nitrogen applications. Pasture conditions were also improving, and hay inventory was noted to be sufficient for the winter months. Low chill peaches flowered with good fruit set and no issues. Later varieties were in full bloom with excellent flower numbers and some early fruit set. SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending March 24, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies rated 8% very short, 39% short, 52% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 5% very short, 39% short, 55% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 2% very poor, 3% poor, 39% fair, 53% good, and 3% excellent. TENNESSEE: For the week ending March 24, Days suitable 5.7. Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 6% short, 83% adequate, 10% surplus. Subsoil moisture is 2% very short, 7% short, 84% adequate, 7% surplus. Winter wheat condition 3% very poor, 6% poor, 21% fair, 51% good, 19% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 3% very poor, 16% poor, 40% fair, 37% good, 4% excellent. Cattle condition 1% very poor, 5% poor, 29% fair, 56% good, and 9% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies are 9% very short, 30% short, 55% adequate, 6% surplus. Tennessee experienced mostly average temperatures and precipitation thus far in March with a few days dipping below freezing. The western region of the State is a bit dry with counties in D0 and D1 moderate drought status as of March 21. Producers have been busy applying herbicides and prepping fields for corn and soybean planting as well as fertilizing pastures and wheat. Overall, winter wheat conditions look good, though cold temperatures may have caused a bit of damage in some regions. Pastures are beginning to green up with the warmer temperatures, bringing much needed relief for livestock producers feeding hay. TEXAS: For the month of March, precipitation ranged from trace amounts to upwards of 5 inches, with the Southeast Texas, the South Central, and the Upper Coast districts receiving the most. Winter wheat and oats continued to show improvement and progressed due to the moisture and seasonal temperatures. Range and pasture conditions were mostly rated fair to poor, with pasture forages greening up due to favorable growing conditions. Livestock producers continued supplemental feeding across the State. The State's largest wildfire burned over 1 million acres, not including additional fires in the area. The wildfires in the Northern High Plains caused catastrophic damage to the area with heavy livestock losses reported and over 1 million acres of pastures and rangeland burned. UTAH: This report for Utah is for the entire month of March 2024. Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 10% short, 76% adequate, 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture 6% short, 82% adequate, 12% surplus. Pasture and range condition 6% poor, 50% fair, 42% good, 2% excellent. Winter wheat condition 8% poor, 20% fair, 57% good, 15% excellent. Barley planted 1%. Hay and roughage supplies 5% very short, 9% short, 64% adequate, 22% surplus. Stock water supplies 1% short, 89% adequate, 10% surplus. Cattle and calves condition 7% poor, 14% fair, 69% good, 10% excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 5% poor, 19% fair, 60% good, 16% excellent. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for cattle 75%. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for sheep 84%. Cows calved 23%. Ewes lambed-farm flock 21%. Ewes lambed-range flock 8%. Sheep shorn-farm flock 1%. Sheep shorn-range flock 1%. Mild winter temperatures along with snowstorms occurred throughout the State for the month of March. Snowpack in Utah, according to Natural Resources Conservation Service as of March 25, 2024, was 125 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. Spring planting was under away in Beaver and Cache Counties. Beaver, Box Elder, Grand, and Millard Counties noted that livestock producers were dealing with no calving and lambing issues due to mild winter weather. VIRGINIA: For the week ending March 24, 2024, topsoil moisture is 2% very short, 11% short, 79% adequate and 8% surplus. Subsoil moisture is 1% very short, 13% short, 81% adequate and 5% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 4% poor, 39% fair, 48% good, 8% excellent. Barley condition 2% poor, 47% fair, 40% good, 11% excellent. Livestock condition 2% very poor, 4% poor, 36% fair, 50% good, 8% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 4% very poor, 24% poor, 35% fair, 32% good, 5% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 11% very short, 27% short, 60% adequate, 2% surplus. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 15%. Virginia experienced mixed precipitation from normal to above normal in March. Temperatures were above normal for the month. During the third week of the month, high winds and dry conditions in the northern part of Virgina fueled major fires that lead to the loss of agricultural structures and thousands of trees falling on fences. In some areas, weather has allowed pastures to start to green up and grow. Hay and roughage supplies are mostly adequate to short. Primary activities for the month include producers considering selling replacement heifers, vaccinating fall calves, topdressing nitrogen, applying manure, and spreading fertilizer. WASHINGTON: Western Washington saw an earlier spring than usual, with blossoms emerging earlier. After a cold snap, blossoms bounced back, and pollinators were out, but many brassicas were killed due to the cold. Fields were still wet, although a few farmers tilled some ground last week. In central Washington, temperatures were above normal. Native grasses started greening up, and fields were drying out for possible field activity. Calving was going well with no problems. In Yakima County, fields were greening up in the Yakima Valley, from cover crops to grass hays. Rivers and streams were running low compared to last spring. Hop yards were strung for the upcoming season. Most vegetable fields had been prepared, tilled, hilled, and were ready for planting. Pear orchards were white from the dormant applications applied to ward off insects. Apple and cherry orchards received delayed dormant sprays of insecticides and horticultural oils for overwintering aphids, scales, and mites. Precocious cherry blocks were already showing pink as the flower florets began to extend. Apricots were showing a weak flower bloom. In east central Washington, producers experienced moderate springtime weather, temperatures had warmed up, and some counties saw rainfall. Northeastern Washington did not see much rain, but temperatures rose. In southeast Washington, the snowpack was light, and dry conditions continued. WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending March 24, Topsoil moisture 7% very short, 12% short, 76% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 17% short, 72% adequate, and 6% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 13% short, 79% adequate, and 7% surplus. Feed grain supplies 2% very short, 7% short, 88% adequate, and 3% surplus. Pasture condition 4% very poor, 8% poor, 16% fair, 67% good, and 5% excellent. Winter wheat condition 60% fair, 30% good, and 10% excellent. Cattle and calves condition 3% poor, 15% fair, 73% good, and 9% excellent. Percent calved 54%. Sheep and lambs condition 6% poor, 17% fair, 68% good, and 9% excellent. Percent lambed 65%. Weather conditions for the month have been a mix of warm and cool temperatures with some wet conditions. There was some area flooding when rains were heavy, along with some snow as temperatures fluctuated. Farming activities for the month included calving and lambing. WISCONSIN: March temperatures through March 24 in Wisconsin averaged 35.3 degrees, 6.8 degrees above normal. The State averaged 0.97 inch of precipitation throughout the month, 0.45 inch below normal. Spring fieldwork including tilling fields and spreading manure got off to a fast start due to the warm and dry conditions. However, a late month snowstorm slowed progress on upcoming fieldwork. In more southern areas, wheat and alfalfa are beginning to green, with minimal signs of winter freeze damage observed. WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of March 2024. Topsoil moisture 12% very short, 43% short, 40% adequate, 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture 19% very short, 41% short, 40% adequate. Barley planted 19%. Winter wheat condition 4% very poor, 21% poor, 52% fair, 22% good, 1 percent excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 2% short, 86% adequate, 11 percent surplus. Stock water supplies 2% very short, 12% short, 85% adequate, 1% surplus. Livestock condition 1% poor, 5% fair, 89% good, 5% excellent. Pasture and range condition 2% very poor, 8% poor, 49% fair, 39% good, 2% surplus. Cows calved 18%. Ewes lambed 14%. Sheep shorn 27%. Cattle death loss was rated as 62% average, 38% light. Sheep death loss was rated 1% heavy, 61% average, 38% light. Wyoming received relief from the ongoing drought conditions during the month of March. Precipitation was scattered and total accumulations varied, ranging from a trace to as much as 10 inches during the month, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Temperatures across the State were warmer than normal, ranging from 2 to 10 degrees above average. Drought conditions in the State slightly improved during March according to the United States Drought Monitor report published on March 19, 2024. The amount of land rated drought free equaled 46 percent, compared with 44 percent on February 20, 2024. Abnormally dry conditions covered 28 percent of Wyoming, moderate drought was found in 19 percent, and severe drought was found in 7 percent. Statistical Methodology Survey Procedures: Crop progress and condition estimates included in this report are based on survey data collected in December, January, February, and March. The non-probability crop progress and condition surveys include input from approximately 4,000 respondents whose occupations provide them opportunities to make visual observations and frequently bring them in contact with farmers in their counties. Based on standard definitions, these respondents subjectively estimate the progress of crops through various stages of development, as well as the progress of producer activities. They also provide subjective evaluations of crop and soil moisture conditions. Any weather data mentioned in this report is provided by outside sources such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Agricultural Weather Information Service (AWIS). Information Contacts Listed below are the commodity statisticians in the Crops Branch of the National Agricultural Statistics Service to contact for additional information. E-mail inquiries may be sent to nass@usda.gov. Nicholas Streff, Acting Chief, Crops Branch.......................................... (202) 720-2127 Chris Hawthorn, Head, Field Crops Section............................................ (202) 720-2127 Irwin Anolik - Crop Progress and Condition...................................... (202) 720-7621 Joshua Bates - Hemp, Oats, Soybeans............................................. (202) 690-3234 Natasha Bruton - Barley, Cotton System Consumption and Stocks, Grain Crushings.. (202) 690-1042 David Colwell - Fats and Oils, Flour Milling Products........................... (202) 720-8800 Michelle Harder - County Estimates, Hay......................................... (202) 690-8533 James Johanson - Rye, Wheat..................................................... (202) 720-8068 Greg Lemmons - Corn, Flaxseed, Proso Millet..................................... (202) 720-9526 Becky Sommer - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum................................. (202) 720-5944 Travis Thorson - Sunflower, Other Oilseeds...................................... (202) 720-7369 Travis Thorson - Peanuts, Rice.................................................. (202) 720-2127 Access to NASS Reports For your convenience, you may access NASS reports and products the following ways: All reports are available electronically, at no cost, on the NASS web site: www.nass.usda.gov. Both national and state specific reports are available via a free e- mail subscription. To set-up this free subscription, visit www.nass.usda.gov and click on "National" or "State" in upper right corner above "search" box to create an account and select the reports you would like to receive. Cornell's Mann Library has launched a new website housing NASS's and other agency's archived reports. The new website, https://usda.library.cornell.edu. All email subscriptions containing reports will be sent from the new website, https://usda.library.cornell.edu. To continue receiving the reports via e-mail, you will have to go to the new website, create a new account and re-subscribe to the reports. If you need instructions to set up an account or subscribe, they are located at: https://usda.library.cornell.edu/help. You should whitelist notifications@usda-esmis.library.cornell.edu in your email client to avoid the emails going into spam/junk folders. For more information on NASS surveys and reports, call the NASS Agricultural Statistics Hotline at (800) 727-9540, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET, or e-mail: nass@usda.gov. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the Department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment activities.) If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF), found online at www.ascr.usda.gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.