MANDAN, N.D. — Crop conditions in the spring wheat and durum region declined again over the past week. Temperatures across North Dakota were 10 to 14 degrees above normal and highs over the weekend reached triple digits, setting records in some areas.  The hot temperatures, combined with windy conditions, further deteriorated soil moisture conditions and stressed crops.  The adverse weather conditions this early in the growing season are pushing crop development and reducing yield potential.  Isolated thunderstorms did provide precipitation in some areas, but no widespread moisture has been received.  Some producers are reporting that their wheat crops look good and have potential to producer a decent crop if they receive moisture soon, other producers have received little to no moisture and crops are suffering. Even producers that have had some moisture at planting time and in subsequent weeks are reporting that precipitation is needed now, and consistent moisture will be needed throughout the state to carry the crop to harvest.

The weekly USDA Crop Progress report indicates that 90 percent of the U.S. spring wheat crop has emerged, with portions still not emerged in Montana and North Dakota.  Crop condition ratings dropped this week with only 38 percent of the U.S. crop rated in good to excellent condition, down 5 percentage points from the previous week as condition ratings dropped in all four major states.  Last year at this time 82 percent of the crop was rated in good to excellent condition. Conditions are most favorable in Minnesota where 72 percent is rated good to excellent, followed by 47 percent in Montana, 32 percent in North Dakota and 16 percent in South Dakota.  As a whole, these are the lowest crop condition ratings since 1988.

While producers in some of the durum producing areas of western North Dakota have received beneficial precipitation to help maintain the crop, more precipitation will be needed.  Soil moisture levels are still rated as being 80 percent short to very short across the state.  The earlier planted crop seems to be suffering more from the hot, dry conditions and yield has been affected, other producers are holding out hope for an average crop if consistent moisture is received.  The USDA Crop Progress report shows that 65 percent of the planted crop has emerged, behind average.  Just over half of the crop is reported to be in good to excellent condition, compared to two-thirds on average and 82 percent a year ago.

As of June 6, 2021

As of June 6, 2021

— North Dakota Wheat Commission

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