Crop Progress - State Stories ISSN: 2470-9816 Released January 7, 2026, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ALABAMA: December temperatures were all over the place as some counties were slightly warmer than normal while nearby counties were cooler than normal. Freezing weather events arrived towards the middle of the month and at the end of the month. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.6 inches in Jefferson County to 8.1 inches in Baldwin County. While temperatures varied, lack of precipitation across the State did not. Most counties were anywhere from 2" to 5" below the normal rainfall amount for December. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 87.2 percent was in at least moderate drought conditions compared to 63.5 percent at the beginning of the month. Corn cotton and soybeans harvest completed while cotton producers were still harvesting their crop. After delayed planting in November due to dry conditions, some producers were busy finishing up planting winter forage, cover crops, and small grains. Drought conditions slowed pasture and range development resulting in feeding of supplemental feed and hay. Producers noted that hay shortages were starting to pop up across the State. To get ready for the next season, farmers worked on their fields, maintained their equipment, prepared the land, and sampled the soil as needed. ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE ARIZONA: This report is for the month of December 2025. By month's end, 95 percent of Arizona cotton had been harvested, down 4 percentage points from the previous year's levels. Twenty-two percent of the State's barley had been planted, of which 19 percent had emerged, up 10 and 9 percentage points, respectively, from the previous year's levels. Similarly, 25 percent of Arizona's Durum wheat had been planted, of which 18 percent had emerged, up 16 and 12 percentage points, respectively, from the previous year's levels. Alfalfa hay harvest continued to take place on about 10 percent of the crop's acreage throughout the State. Arizona's alfalfa crop was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 1 percent of the crop rated fair. Pasture and range conditions throughout the State deteriorated when compared to that of the previous report. Forty percent of the State's pasture and rangeland was rated very poor, 34 percent was rated poor, 18 percent was rated fair, and 8 percent was rated good. Reports from eastern counties have reiterated that grazing conditions continue to deteriorate and that pastures have shown no sign of revegetation. Reporters have also stated that warmer than normal temperatures have allowed the emergence of undesirable spring annuals. Additionally, piņon-juniper woodlands are now showing signs of extreme vegetative distress. Topsoil moisture levels continue to fall as much of the State has been affected by drought. Thirty-four percent of the State is rated very short, 29 percent is rated short, 33 percent is rated adequate, and 4 percent is rated surplus. Subsoil moisture levels followed a similar trend. Throughout the month of December, measurable precipitation was experienced across northwestern and southeastern areas of the State while southwestern and northeastern areas remained relatively dry. According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Hualapai and Galiuro Mountains received the most precipitation, accumulating approximately 3.00 inches while other areas of the State received anywhere from trace amounts to 2.50 inches of total precipitation. The drought information statements for south-central, southwest, and southeast Arizona remained in effect and were updated on December 22, 2025, in response to enduring drought conditions. The seasonal mean temperature and total precipitation outlooks for January, February, and March 2026 were issued by the National Weather Service on December 18, 2025. The seasonal mean temperature outlook continues to show that temperatures will likely be above normal for the entirety of the State, with the eastern three-quarters of Arizona having a higher probability of experiencing warmer temperatures than the remaining quarter of the State. Similarly, the seasonal total precipitation outlook continues to show that precipitation will likely be below normal for the entirety of the State, with southeastern regions having a higher probability of experiencing below average precipitation than remaining areas of the State. Arizona's seasonal drought outlook was updated on December 31, 2025. The outlook now shows that conditions are expected to persist throughout all areas of the State that were affected by moderate drought (D1) or higher on December 30, 2025. Drought development is not expected across remaining areas of the State. Streamflow conditions throughout Arizona for the month of December were rated from low to above normal. Streamflow conditions suffered the most in the Upper San Pedro, Upper Little Colorado, Upper Gila, and Lower Colorado River Basins. As of December 30, 2025, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed an improvement in conditions when compared to that of the report dated November 18, 2025. Abnormally dry conditions (D0) bounded 21 percent of the State, moderate drought (D1) enveloped 40 percent, severe drought (D2) encompassed 28 percent, and extreme drought (D3) spanned 1 percent of the State's total land area. Arizona remained free of exceptional (D4) drought. Throughout the month of December, temperatures were at or above normal according to the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC). Daytime highs throughout Arizona ranged from 4 to 14 degrees above normal and ranged from the low 40's in northern Apache County to the high 70's across southwestern regions of the State. Overnight lows ranged from 2 degrees below to 10 degrees above normal and ranged from 15 to 40 degrees across northern and eastern counties, whereas counties within the Sonoran Desert experienced lows of 45 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. ARKANSAS: For the week ending January 4, 2026, topsoil moisture supplies were 15% very short, 31% short, 53% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 13% very short, 29% short, 57% adequate, and 1% surplus. There were 22 days suitable for fieldwork during the month of January. Conditions throughout the month were dry and mild in most areas. Virtually all of the State was abnormally dry according to the U.S. drought monitor. Fifteen counties were under a burn ban at the end of the month. Winter annual forages were struggling to grow due to lack of moisture. Ranchers were feeding hay and implementing herd management practices as needed. CALIFORNIA: Days suitable for fieldwork 6.3. Topsoil moisture 45% adequate and 55% surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% short, 90% adequate, and 5% surplus. Pasture and range condition 5% fair, 60% good, and 35% excellent. Winter wheat condition 5% fair, 25% good, and 70% excellent. As of December 31th, Snowpack content ranged from 4.4 to 7.9 inches in the Northern, Southern and Central Sierras, well below average for this time of year. California's Tule fog lasted for much of December, setting records for consecutive gloomy days. The fog finally broke in the middle to late December due to incoming storms which provided the much needed rain through the end of December. Winter wheat, oats, barley, triticale, and alfalfa were growing well. Winter forage was planted. Alfalfa fields experienced their final cutting of the year and were bagged for haylage. Growers sprayed their fields with pre-emergents to combat the cold wet weather. Fields were prepped and planted for winter vegetables. A variety of fruits and vegetables were harvested and available at roadside stands and farmer's markets. Persimmon harvest was complete. Stone fruit orchards were being pruned while in dormancy. Pomegranate trees began entering dormancy. Table grape harvest was complete. Grape vineyards were pruned and vines were tied. Navel orange, grapefruit, pummelo, mandarin, and lemon harvests continued. Blood orange and Melo gold grapefruit harvests began. Olive orchards were pruned and prepared for the next season. Strawberry fields were prepared for the next crop. Blackberry and blueberry bushes were sold for planting. COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the month of December 2025. Topsoil moisture 37% very short, 24% short, 38% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 35% very short, 15% short, 49% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 6% very poor, 7% poor, 44% fair, 39% good, 4% excellent. Livestock condition 2% very poor, 4% poor, 28% fair, 55% good, 11% excellent. Pasture and range condition 10% very poor, 19% poor, 27% fair, 42% good, 2% excellent. As of January 4, 2026, snowpack in Colorado was 61 percent measured as percent of median snowfall according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA. December precipitation was below average across most of the State, while average temperatures were well above normal. Survey comments noted that it's been a very mild winter, producers are concerned about drought conditions and water availability for the upcoming season. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor published for December 30, roughly 29 percent of the State was drought free, compared with just over 75 percent a year ago. Other drought categorizations included abnormally dry (D0) at 33 percent, moderate drought (D1) at 22 percent, severe drought (D2) at 13 percent, and extreme drought (D3) at 2 percent. DELAWARE: Normal crop conditions were reported for the northern and central portions of Delaware for the month of December. Harvesting for the southern portion of the State was late, with very little cover crops such as wheat and barley planted. Soil samples were being collected in addition to liming of lower pH fields. FLORIDA: Temperatures for the month of December were above average in the State other than the Panhandle where temperatures were slightly below average. A cold spell at the end of the month brought freezing temperatures to the northern and central areas of the State. Rainfall ranged from no rain in some areas to 8.3 inches in Bay County. The rainfall helped the areas that received it, but 83 percent of the State was in moderate drought at the end of the month. Continued dry conditions slowed forage growth and delayed the planting of cover crops, but areas that received rainfall later in the month saw improved topsoil conditions that allowed planting to resume and forages to rebound. Ranchers fed supplemental hay as needed due to reduced pasture conditions. Sugarcane producers noted ideal conditions allowing for planting to wrap up by mid to late month. Sugarcane harvest continued throughout the month. Grove operations included fertilizing, minimal spraying, mowing after harvest, applying minimal herbicides and continued pushing up of abandoned groves and dead trees. Crops that were planted and harvested included strawberries, green beans, squash, tomato, okra, sweet corn, boniato, ethnic vegetables and some tropical fruits. GEORGIA: December temperatures were close to normal with most of the State falling within 2 degrees above or below historical averages. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 1.5 inches in Hart County to 6.5 inches in Brantley County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 72 percent of the State had moderate drought conditions, 27 percent had severe drought conditions, and 1 percent had extreme drought conditions by month's end, compared to 8 percent abnormally dry, 22 percent with moderate drought, 41 percent with severe drought, 15 percent with extreme drought, and 4 percent with exceptional drought conditions at the month's beginning. Cotton and peanut harvest were mostly complete with some counties still finishing late cotton. Many grapevines were not fully dormant in mountain counties due to warm spells, raising risk of early budbreak. Onion crops were generally off to a good start in Vidalia-region counties despite dry conditions. Winter wheat emergence stalled in several counties because of dry soils and cover crops were behind schedule in many counties. Winter grazing and cool-season forages were struggling due to drought and late planting. Producers were feeding more hay than normal due to poor winter grazing. Livestock health was mostly stable, though some counties reported slight weight loss. Water sources were low (ponds, creeks) in multiple regions. HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE IDAHO: The average temperatures for December were above normal for the State. Snowpack levels were below normal in southern and western Idaho. Precipitation was frequent, but it was mostly in the form of rain. However, the ground dried quickly. Cattle were being fed in higher elevations while those at lower elevations were still able to graze. Heavy rains in late December with warm soil temperatures allowed the topsoil moisture to improve. Early calving operations were preparing for the calving season. Lambing operations also prepared for spring lambs. Hay stocks were holding well with an adequate supply due to warmer than normal temperatures helping livestock maintain with less feed. ILLINOIS: For the week ending January 4, 2026. Topsoil moisture 8% very short, 33% short, 55% adequate, and 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture 15% very short, 35% short, 42% adequate, and 8% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 2% poor, 33% fair, 57% good, and 7% excellent. INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of December was 14% very short, 22% short, 60% adequate, 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 18% very short, 27% short, 51% adequate, 4% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 1% very poor, 4% poor, 23% fair, 61% good, 11% excellent. Statewide temperatures averaged 30.3 degrees, 2.2 degrees below normal for the month of December. Statewide average precipitation was 1.91 inches, 1.11 inches below normal. Mixed precipitation was insufficient to recharge subsoil moisture levels. Snow cover in early December was melted by warmer-than-average temperatures in the second half of the month. Feedstocks and livestock were faring well. Other activities included grain hauling, field and equipment repairs, and pre-purchasing supplies. IOWA: December saw below average temperatures across the State. Precipitation was below normal Statewide except for the southeastern district. Several areas received measurable snowfall throughout December. Many reporters described December as beginning out cold and snowy. The dry and milder temperatures at the end of December allowed for fertilizer and manure applications. Livestock conditions throughout the State were generally described as good, with no reports of abnormal death loss. Cattle were grazing on corn stalks as the snow melted. Grain movement was not hindered by early bad weather with many reports of operators hauling grain. Soil moisture levels continue to be the primary concern as farmers look forward to the 2026 crop year. KANSAS: For the week ending January 4, 2026, topsoil moisture supplies rated 12% very short, 32% short, 52% adequate, 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 10% very short, 30% short, 56% adequate, 4% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 2% very poor, 7% poor, 31% fair, 49% good, 11% excellent. KENTUCKY: For the month of December, hay supplies 2% very short, 9% short, 83% adequate, 6% surplus. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 1% poor, 16% fair, 74% good, 8% excellent. Condition of winter wheat 1% poor, 23% fair, 70% good, 6% excellent. Tobacco stripping 85% complete. Forage was affected by drought in the late summer/fall leading to widely varying quality. As the winter progresses, supplemental feeding will increase, however current stocks are sufficient. Weather for the month has been very inconsistent with temperatures oscillating between bitterly cold to very mild. LOUISIANA: For the week ending January 4, 2026, topsoil moisture supplies were 16% very short, 41% short, 42% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 16% very short, 39% short, 42% adequate, and 3% surplus. There were 25 days suitable for fieldwork during the month of December. Overall, the State experienced mild weather with temperatures above seasonal averages and unusually dry conditions. Most of the State was experiencing drought conditions. Stock ponds and other natural water sources remained depleted in some areas. Winter forages were suffering due to lack of precipitation. Dry conditions aided in the harvesting of sugarcane and reduced field damage during harvest. Some rice, corn, and sugarcane fields were being prepared for the upcoming season. MARYLAND: In December, reports indicated that field conditions remained predominantly dry, with no notable issues, disruptions, or abnormal activity observed during the month. MICHIGAN: Days suitable for fieldwork, 0.7. Topsoil moisture 14% short, 66% adequate, 20% surplus. Subsoil moisture 12% very short, 12% short, 75% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 2% poor, 34% fair, 54% good, 10% excellent. Precipitation for the month averaged 2.86 inches throughout the State, 0.69 inch above normal. Temperature for the month averaged 22.6 degrees, 3.6 degrees below normal. The beginning of December included large amounts of snowfall followed by above normal temperatures, melting the snow. Temperatures dropped again at the end of the month and snow returned covering pastures and fields. Winter wheat showed good growth during the warmer wet parts of December. The frozen ground allowed producers to finish any remaining corn and soybean harvest around the holidays. Other activities for the month included purchasing seed, ordering supplies, preparing year-end tax paperwork, and tending livestock. MINNESOTA: December 2025 temperatures were 3.4 degrees below average. Precipitation, at 0.96 inches, was close to normal. Snow cover in early December helped reduce frost depth. Livestock stress from temperature fluctuations were reported. Cattle grazed on corn stalks where able. Very little fieldwork took place during the month. MISSISSIPPI: For the week ending January 4, 2026, topsoil moisture supplies were 13% very short, 27% short, 55% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 12% very short, 27% short, 53% adequate, and 8% surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork during the month of December were 23 days. Conditions for most of December brought warmer and drier than normal conditions. Almost all counties were abnormally dry at the end of the month according to the U.S. drought monitor. Overall, livestock conditions were average with most cattle producers feeding hay and using supplemental feeding. With the mild weather, wheat, fescue, and other winter crop conditions were adequate. MISSOURI: For the week ending January 4, 2026. Topsoil moisture 10% very short, 32% short, 57% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 11% very short, 35% short, 54% adequate, and 0% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 2% poor, 34% fair, 58% good, and 6% excellent. MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the entire month of December 2025. Topsoil moisture 25% very short, 36% short, 38% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 26% very short, 39% short, 34% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 18% poor, 56% fair, 26% good. Winter wheat - wind damage was 20% none, 49% light, 24% moderate, 7% severe. Winter wheat - freeze and drought damage 50% none, 49% light, 1% moderate. Winter wheat - protectiveness of snow cover 87% very poor, 9% poor, 4% fair. Pasture and range condition 17% very poor, 36% poor, 34% fair, 13% good. Livestock grazing accessibility 68% open, 18% difficult, 14% closed. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 86% fed. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 87% fed. December precipitation was average to above average, depending on location, while average temperatures were well above normal. Survey comments noted that temperatures in some counties bounced from well below to well above freezing. In other areas, the lack of snow cover and thick ice resulted in some livestock injuries, as well as overall difficulty for ranchers to navigate pastures to deliver feed. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor published for December 30, roughly 48 percent of the State was drought free, compared with just over 5 percent December 31, 2024. Other drought categories included abnormally dry (D0) at 27 percent, moderate drought (D1) at 15 percent, severe drought (D2) at 8 percent, and extreme drought (D3) at 2 percent. NEBRASKA: For the week ending January 4, 2026, topsoil moisture supplies rated 19% very short, 49% short, 31% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 21% very short, 42% short, 36% adequate, and 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 8% very poor, 10% poor, 42% fair, 36% good, and 4% excellent. NEVADA: Days suitable for fieldwork 7.0. Topsoil moisture 5% very short, 5% short, 80% adequate, and 10% surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 20% short, 70% adequate, and 5% surplus. Pasture and range condition 5% very poor, 30% poor, 40% fair, 15% good, and 10% excellent. Temperatures across the State of Nevada were extremely warm for December, with many areas recording their warmest December in history. The State experienced unseasonably dry weather during the first few weeks, with storms approaching by month's end. Significant rain events occurred towards the end of the month. Alfalfa fields were dormant. Winter annual grasses were green. NEW ENGLAND: New England States experienced numerous snow and rainstorms during December with below average temperatures reported throughout the region. Most areas of the region experienced persistent snow cover throughout the month, with northern Maine ending the month with less snow cover compared to recent years. Despite frequent rain and snowfall, severe drought conditions persisted in New Hampshire and Maine, extending into portions of Vermont. During the month producers were busy purchasing seed and nutrients for the upcoming planting season (NH) and sourcing feed for livestock (ME). NEW JERSEY: December saw lower than average temperatures and according to the US Drought Monitor, most of the State remained in "Abnormally Dry" (33%), "Moderate Drought" (47%), or "Severe Drought" (8%) conditions. Statewide total precipitation was below average, with some areas reporting high winds, snow, and freezing rain. Some greenhouses were seeded in preparation for early spring plantings. NEW MEXICO: This report for New Mexico is for the entire month of December 2025. Topsoil moisture 67% very short, 24% short, 9% adequate. Subsoil moisture 68% very short, 20% short, 10% adequate, 2% surplus. Red chile harvested 98%, compared to 96% in 2024. Cotton harvested 98%, compared to 95% in 2024. Pecans harvested 85%, compared to 75% in 2024. Cotton condition 14% fair, 29% good, 57% excellent. Pecan condition 13% fair, 87% good. Winter wheat condition 20% fair, 59% good, 21% excellent. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 53%, compared to 70% in 2024. Cattle condition 3% very poor, 13% poor, 16% fair, 15% good, 53% excellent. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 79%, compared to 90% in 2024. Sheep and lambs condition 19% very poor, 28% poor, 43% fair, 10% good. Hay and roughage supplies 27% short, 73% adequate. Stock water supplies 5% very short, 35% short, 60% adequate. According to the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC), the month of December was dry for New Mexico with much of the State receiving 0.4 inches or less of rainfall. Temperatures for the month of December were 6 to 10 degrees above average for the majority of the State. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor released on December 31, the State remains free from exceptional drought (D4) conditions despite the dry, warm conditions. Extreme drought (D3) conditions were estimated at roughly 2.6 percent of the State, severe drought (D2) conditions were roughly 49.4 percent, moderate drought (D1) conditions were roughly 19.4percent, and abnormally dry (D0) conditions covered about 11.2 percent of the State. Drought-free conditions calculated to approximately 17.4 percent. In Union County, many wheat fields are showing pressure due to livestock grazing and minimal precipitation. Overall, harvesting progress is similar to prior year as dry conditions have given producers ample time in fields to harvest crops. NEW YORK: The month of December maintained relatively abnormally dry to very moderate drought conditions in the western part of the State and northernmost areas with some similar conditions in the southeast and Long Island areas. Overall, temperatures and conditions were colder than normal with snowy or rainy weather. Only a few spots reported warmer conditions. The snow cover in some areas were viewed positively for protecting perennial sods and fall planted small grains. Long Island vineyards and nurseries were able to do some dormant pruning. Although grapevines were reported as not impacted despite the cold, other fruit growers and honeybee operations expressed some concern over the early onset of frigid temperatures. NORTH CAROLINA: For the month ending January 4, 2026. Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 39% short, 55% adequate and 1% surplus. Topsoil moisture 3% very short, 38% short, 55% adequate and 4% surplus. Barley condition 4% fair and 96% good. Hay and roughage supplies are 5% short, 88% adequate and 7% surplus. Oats condition 2% very poor, 8% poor, 23% fair, 64% good and 3% excellent. Pasture and range condition 1% very poor, 21% poor, 35% fair, 42% good and 1% excellent. Winter wheat conditions were 1% poor, 25% fair, 65% good and 9% excellent. Throughout December, there was very little measurable rain. It's very dry this time of the year. Ponds, creeks and streams are below normal. Soil moisture is near average. Winter small grains look good overall. NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending January 4, 2026, topsoil moisture supplies rated 2% very short, 6% short, 82% adequate, 10% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 2% very short, 7% short, 83% adequate, 8% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 4% poor, 44% fair, 49% good, 3% excellent. Winter wheat emerged 87%. Corn harvested 96%. Sunflowers harvested 96%. Cattle and calf conditions, 1% poor, 14% fair, 77% good, 8% excellent. Sheep and lamb conditions, 17% fair, 79% good, 4% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies, 4% short, 86% adequate, 10% surplus. Stock water supplies, 7% short, 88% adequate, 5% surplus. OHIO: Days suitable for fieldwork, 1.5. Topsoil moisture for the month was 5% very short, 15% short, 77% adequate, 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 14% very short, 20% short, 65% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 1% poor, 38% fair, 49% good, 11% excellent. The Statewide average temperature was 29.5 degrees, 3.5 degrees below normal. Precipitation averaged 2.20 inches Statewide, 0.79 inches below normal for December. Swings in temperature and weather made winter tillage challenging. Winter wheat condition ratings were stable. Other activities for the month included equipment maintenance, grain hauling, and tax season preparations. OKLAHOMA: For the month of December, rainfall totals averaged 0.11 inches throughout the State, with the Southeast district recording the highest precipitation at 0.28 inches and the North Central district recording the lowest precipitation at 0.02 inches. According to the December 31st US Drought Monitor Report, 79 percent of the State was in the abnormally dry to exceptional drought category, up 49 points from the previous year. Additionally, 54 percent of the State was in the moderate drought to exceptional drought category, up 48 percentage points from the previous year. Statewide temperatures averaged in the low to upper 40's, with the lowest recording of 7 degrees at Kenton on Monday, December 29th, and the highest recording of 89 degrees at Mangum on Thursday, December 25th. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions were rated short to adequate. OREGON: Temperatures were above normal throughout the State. Snowpack was below normal throughout the State. Rainfall was average to above average throughout the State. Due to above normal rain and warmer temperatures that delayed the ground freezing, winter grains, grass seed and pastures accelerated growth. In western Oregon, heavy rains and winds caused extensive flooding of low-lying pastures, hayfields and cropland. There were several landslides and downed trees reported. In north central Oregon, winter wheat emerged in most fields. There was no snow cover until late December, and the crops grew a lot. Winter wheat was in good condition. Livestock health was good, and forage was adequate. PENNSYLVANIA: For the month of December, the State experienced several precipitation events including snowfall, sleet and rain. Snow accumulation and depth varied by location. The weather was cold during the month, and temperatures were on average in the 20 to 30 degrees. In some areas field activities had ceased due to the snow cover and frozen soils. In other areas, some manure and lime spreading occurred when conditions allowed. The cold start to winter put cover crops and small grains into dormancy. SOUTH CAROLINA: December temperatures were below average for much of the State, particularly in the northeast corner where temperatures were as much as 5 degrees below historic averages. Total rainfall during the month ranged from 1.3 inches in Anderson County to 3.8 inches in Colleton County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 46 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions and 41 percent had moderate drought conditions by month's end, compared to 40 percent abnormally dry, 11 percent with moderate drought, and 7 percent with severe drought conditions at the month's beginning. Row crops were mostly harvested despite some weather delays. Winter wheat and small grains emergence was satisfactory where moisture was adequate but was delayed or poor in dry counties. Pastures were down, with subpar grazing and lower- quality hay in some counties due to the dry conditions. Producers were feeding more hay than usual, in some cases starting a month earlier than normal. Livestock was generally in good condition, with no major livestock health issues reported. SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending January 4, 2026, topsoil moisture supplies rated 9% very short, 25% short, 62% adequate, and 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 10% very short, 26% short, 60% adequate, and 4% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 4% very poor, 5% poor, 54% fair, 34% good, and 3% excellent. TENNESSEE: Topsoil moisture 12% very short, 28% short, 55% adequate, 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture 10% very short, 34% short, 52% adequate, 4% surplus. Winter wheat condition 3% very poor, 5% poor, 34% fair, 43% good, 15% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 5% very poor, 13% poor, 39% fair, 37% good, 6% excellent. Cattle condition 1% very poor, 4% poor, 29% fair, 57% good, 9% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 15% short, 71% adequate, 13% surplus. Tennessee closed the year a bit dry, with several counties in D0 abnormally dry to D2 severe drought status as of December 30th. Livestock producers continue feeding hay, while row crop farmers hauled grain and prepare for the 2026 crop season. Reports indicate that winter wheat crops are mostly looking good. TEXAS: For the month of December, precipitation ranged from trace amounts to upwards of 6 inches, with South East Texas and the Coastal Bend receiving the most. Temperature was above normal for the whole month. Both cotton and pecan harvest were nearly complete across the State. Citrus was beginning harvested in the Lower Valley. Cabbage and onions were in good progress in South Texas and in the Lower Valley. Small grains planting was near completion and progress varied depending on different moisture and rain. Range and Pasture conditions were rated 71 percent fair to poor. Supplemental feeding continued across the State. UTAH: This report for Utah is for the entire month of December 2025. Topsoil moisture 34% short, 27% adequate, 39% surplus. Subsoil moisture 34% short, 66% adequate. Pasture and range condition 50% fair, 50% good. Winter wheat condition 10% fair, 90% good. Hay and roughage supplies 10% s1ort, 90% adequate. Stock water supplies 20% short, 70% adequate, 10% surplus. Cattle and calves condition 68% good, 32% excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 10% fair, 90% good. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for cattle 55%. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for sheep 50%. Cows calved 1%. As of January 5, 2026, snowpack in Utah was 86 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. Cache County reports noted more snow was received in the mountains during December compared to lower elevations. Beaver, Cache, and Grand Counties noted conditions were mild, warm, and abnormally dry during December with limited winter moisture received. Cache County reports no snowpack with receiving potential cold freeze have impact on fall planted grains. VIRGINIA: For week ending January 4, 2026, Days suitable 7 Topsoil moisture 17% very short, 39% short, 43% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 18% very short, 35% short, 46% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 6% poor, 41% fair, 50% good, 2% excellent. Barley condition 7% very poor, 17% poor, 46% fair, 28% good, and 2% excellent. Livestock condition 3% poor, 30% fair, 55% good, 12% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 7% very poor, 27% poor, 49% fair, 16% good, and 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 2% very short, 20% short, 74% adequate, 4% surplus. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 19%. During the month of December, rainfall and temperatures averaged below normal in Virginia. Some counties remain classified as being abnormally dry and having drought conditions according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Dry conditions, wind, and stints of cold weather have affected soil moisture and stunted winter wheat growth. Pasture forage is holding steady with some bale feeding. Hay and roughage supplies are mostly adequate to short. Primary activities for the month include finishing up grain harvest, tending livestock, and taking soil samples. WASHINGTON: In Washington, there was a lot of rain, but snow was limited. Flooding was reported in several areas of the State. Snowpack levels were below normal in most of the State except for the eastern part which was average. Crop conditions looked good with the rain. Temperatures were above normal with only a few days of freezing temperatures. There were no major cold spells. WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending January 4, Topsoil moisture 35% very short, 34% short, and 31% adequate. Subsoil moisture 37% very short, 35% short, and 28% adequate. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 23% short, 68% adequate, and 8% surplus. Feed grain supplies 2% very short, 16% short, 77% adequate, and 5% surplus. Winter wheat condition 3% poor, 66% fair, and 31% good. Cattle and calves condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 24% fair, 68% good, and 4% excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 4% poor, 21% fair, 72% good, and 3% excellent. Weather conditions for the month have been a mix of cold and warm temperatures mixed with rain, snow showers, and strong winds. Farming activities for the month included preparing for cold weather and taking care of livestock. There are abnormally dry to severe drought conditions in the State. WISCONSIN: December temperatures averaged 17.7 degrees, 3.7 degrees below normal. The State averaged 1.47 inches of precipitation throughout the month, 0.05 inch below normal. Good snow cover for winter small grains and forage fields. Manure hauling was the most noted activity. WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of December 2025. Topsoil moisture 43% very short, 12% short, 31% adequate, 14% surplus. Subsoil moisture 44% very short, 17% short, 25% adequate, 14% surplus. Winter wheat condition 12% very poor, 29% poor, 49% fair, 9% good, 1% excellent. Livestock condition 1% poor, 13% fair, 80% good, 6% excellent. Pasture and range condition 1% very poor, 25% poor, 43% fair, 26% good, 5% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% short, 86% adequate, 13% surplus. Stock water supplies 2% very short, 17% short, 68% adequate, 13% surplus. December precipitation varied from well below to well above average, depending on location, while average temperatures were well above normal. Survey comments noted extreme dryness across several counties. High winds coupled with a lack of snow cover negatively affected topsoil. Other comments noted above average snow and rain, with mild temperatures. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor published for December 30, roughly 31 percent of the State was drought free, compared with no drought free areas on December 31, 2024. Other drought categories included abnormally dry (D0) at 32 percent, moderate drought (D1) at 21 percent, severe drought (D2) at 12 percent, and extreme drought (D3) at 3 percent. Statistical Methodology Survey Procedures: Crop progress and condition estimates included in this report are based on survey data collected in December, January, February, and March. The non-probability crop progress and condition surveys include input from approximately 4,000 respondents whose occupations provide them opportunities to make visual observations and frequently bring them in contact with farmers in their counties. Based on standard definitions, these respondents subjectively estimate the progress of crops through various stages of development, as well as the progress of producer activities. They also provide subjective evaluations of crop and soil moisture conditions. Any weather data mentioned in this report is provided by outside sources such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Agricultural Weather Information Service (AWIS). USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service Information Contacts Listed below are the commodity statisticians in the Crops Branch of the National Agricultural Statistics Service to contact for additional information. E-mail inquiries may be sent to nass@usda.gov Anthony Prillaman, Acting Chief, Crops Branch............................................................ (202) 720-2127 Chris Hawthorn, Head, Field Crops Section (202) 720-2127 Fleming Gibson, Head, Fruits, Vegetables, and Special Crops Section (202) 236-2428 Joshua Bates - Asparagus, Hemp, Maple Syrup, Soybeans (202) 690-3234 Natasha Bruton - Cotton System Consumption and Stocks, Grain Crushings, Fats and Oils, Flour Milling Products, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Plums, Prunes (202) 690-1042 Noemi Guindin - Crop Progress and Condition, Kiwifruit (202) 720-2127 Michelle Harder - Hay, Kale, Peanuts, Raspberries................................................... (202) 690-8533 Deonne Holiday - Almonds, Carrots, Coffee, Cranberries, Garlic, Onions Proso Millet, Rye, Tobacco..................................................................... (202) 720-4288 Bret Holliman - Apricots, Barley, Chickpeas, Nectarines, Peaches, Snap Beans, Tomatoes (202) 720-7235 James Johanson - Dry Edible Beans, Lettuce, Macadamias, Wheat (202) 720-8068 Greg Lemmons - Beets, Corn, Flaxseed, Pears, Rice, Sweet Corn (202) 720-9526 Krishna Rizal - Artichokes, Celery, Grapefruit, Lemons, Mandarins and tangerines, Mint, Mushrooms, Olives, Oranges, Pistachios................................................... (202) 720-5412 Chris Singh - Apples, Cucumbers, Hazelnuts, Potatoes, Pumpkins, Squash, Sugarbeets, Sugarcane, Sweet Potatoes (202) 720-4285 Becky Sommer - Cabbage, Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum, Walnuts, Strawberries (202) 720-5944 Travis Thorson - Blueberries, Canola, Mustard Seed, Rapeseed, Safflower, Spinach, Sunflower............................................................................. (202) 720-7369 Antonio Torres - Cantaloupes, Dry Edible Peas, Grapes, Green Peas, Honeydews, Lentils, Oats, Sweet Cherries, Tart Cherries, Watermelons........................... (202) 720-2157 Chris Wallace - Avocados, Bell Peppers, Chile Peppers, Dates, Floriculture, Hops, Papayas, Pecans.......................................................................... (202) 720-4215 Access to NASS Reports For your convenience, you may access NASS reports and products the following ways: All reports are available electronically, at no cost, on the NASS web site: www.nass.usda.gov. The national specific reports are available via a free e-mail subscription. To set-up this free subscription, visit www.nass.usda.gov and click on "National" in upper right corner above "search" box to create an account and select the reports you would like to receive. 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