News

Drought remains a concern in South Dakota

Parts of South Dakota received much-needed rainfall last week, but drought conditions remain a concern.

In its latest Crop Progress report, the USDA says a line of thunderstorms affected central and east-central parts of the state.

Strong winds and high temperatures were common, causing some stress to plants.

Most of the winter wheat crop has headed, with almost half the acres rated poor to very poor.

More than 50 percent of spring wheat is rated poor to very poor, and nearly 40 percent has headed.

Corn emergence reached 98 percent, but less than half the acres are rated good to excellent.

And with soybean planting mostly complete, just 43 percent of that crop is rated good or excellent.