News

South Dakota soybean planting ahead of normal

South Dakota weather was about normal except for some freezing in northern areas.  It allowed considerable progress in corn and soybean planting, as well as getting the first cutting of alfalfa.  Topsoil moisture is 92 percent adequate to surplus.

The corn planting pace is about normal at 84 percent done.  Soybeans are 56 percent planted, which is nine points ahead of normal.

Winter wheat is 77 percent good to excellent, and 22 percent headed.

Spring wheat is 71 percent good to excellent. Oats are 79 percent good to excellent.  Sorghum planting is ahead of normal at 36 percent done.  The first cutting of alfalfa is 11 percent complete.

Pastures are 80 percent good to excellent, and stock water supplies are 92 percent adequate to surplus.