(ND Ag Connection) – For the week ending April 14, 2024, North Dakota experienced 3.6 days suitable for fieldwork, as reported by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Farmers plan to begin more intensive fieldwork by April 21st.

The state’s topsoil moisture is primarily adequate, with ratings of 14% very short, 32% short, 52% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture followed a similar pattern with 13% very short, 34% short, 50% adequate, and 3% surplus.

In crop developments, spring wheat planting reached 3%, aligning with the five-year average. Winter wheat showed a stable condition with 50% rated good and 43% fair, though jointing was slightly below average at 2%. Oats and barley planting was consistent with average levels at 1%.

The livestock sector reported positive conditions. Cattle and calves were predominantly in good to excellent health, with 72% rated good and 9% excellent.

Calving progress stood at 54%, close to the yearly average. Sheep and lambs also showed favorable conditions, with lambing progress at 73%, slightly behind last year’s pace.

Hay and roughage supplies are mostly sufficient, with 82% rated as adequate and 7% as surplus. Stock water supplies were also largely adequate to meet demands.

Farmers and ranchers continue to monitor conditions closely to maintain productivity and health across crops and livestock.