Mid-July 2024 North Dakota crop update

By Scout Nelson

According to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, North Dakota experienced favorable agricultural conditions for the week ending July 14, 2024, with 5.7 days suitable for fieldwork. Soil moisture levels showed significant adequacy with topsoil moisture rated at 79% adequate and subsoil moisture at 81% adequate, indicating healthy conditions for crop growth.

The soybean crop, currently blooming at 29%, is lagging the previous year's 44% and the five-year average of 35%. Only 2% of soybeans have begun setting pods, which is also below the average.

Spring wheat showed better progress with 95% joined and 70% headed, although slightly behind the usual pace.

Durum wheat presented strong figures with 95% joined and 73% headed, outpacing last year’s progress.

Winter wheat is performing well with 95% headed and 62% in the coloring stage, showing advancement over previous statistics.

Canola and sugarbeets also reported favorable conditions, with canola blooming at 82% and sugarbeets excelling with 79% rated in excellent condition.

Other crops like oats and barley reported good progress, with oats 70% headed and barley 77% headed. However, flaxseed blooming is behind schedule at 43%, compared to a 64% average.

Alfalfa was reported as 1% very poor, 3% poor, 16% fair, 66% good, and 14% excellent. The first cutting of alfalfa reached 79%, which is slightly below the previous years and the average rate of 85%. The second cutting stood at 8%, closely aligning with last year's 9% and slightly above the average of 6%.

Pasture and range conditions were mostly positive, with 62% rated good and 16% excellent. Stock water supplies were adequate for most areas, supporting livestock needs effectively.

Photo Credit: usda