News

Illinois sees slightly warmer and wetter March

Illinois farmers experienced a slightly warmer and wetter March than average.

The USDA reports the statewide average temperature was 42.5 degrees, 2.3 degrees above normal with precipitation averaging 2.9 inches, up three tenths of an inch from average. That kept soil moisture mostly adequate to surplus across the state, with less than 10% of topsoil in short or very short supply. Areas with excess soil moisture could see spring planting delays.

The USDA considers the Illinois winter wheat crop 59% good to excellent, the same percentage as last month, but with a higher portion of that percentage in the excellent category.

The USDA’s weekly crop progress and condition reports resume next week.