News

Much of South Dakota crops heat stressed

South Dakota soil moisture ratings declined following a mostly dry week. Showers and thunderstorms early in the week brought moisture to parts of central South Dakota, however much of the state is dry, warm and windy, stressing crops.  Topsoil moisture is 63 percent adequate to surplus.

Corn is 73 percent good to excellent.  Soybeans are 75 percent good to excellent with blooming 5 percent complete.  Winter wheat is 65 percent good to excellent and 78 percent coloring.  Spring wheat is 58 percent good to excellent and 73 percent headed.

Oats are 62 percent good to excellent, and 80 percent headed.

Alfalfa is only 32 good to excellent.  The first cutting is 87 percent done, and the second cutting is 9 percent done.