Crop Progress - State Stories ISSN: 2470-9816 Released February 27, 2024, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ALABAMA: February temperatures were generally higher than historical averages, particularly in the northern half of the State. Temperatures ranged from 2 degrees lower than normal in Montgomery County to 5.4 degrees higher than normal in Lawrence County. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 1.7 inches in Mobile County to 9.2 inches in Montgomery County. The rainfall helped alleviate drought conditions across the State. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 16.3 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 62.9 percent at the month's beginning. Despite warmer temperatures across much of the State, many winter crops were reported to be in bad condition due to previous freeze events. Winter grazing conditions were reported to be mostly improving due to rising temperatures and rain. Hay shortages were reported in some areas due to the fall drought. Much of the State's livestock were reported to be in fair condition due to the lack of winter grazing, fluctuating temperatures, and hay shortages. ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE ARIZONA: This report for Arizona is for the month of February 2024. Responses were based on the entire month, with consideration for any weather-related impacts that are forecast between now and month's end. By month's end, 91 percent of Arizona's barley had emerged, and 27 percent has headed, up 55 and 24 percentage points respectively from the previous year's report, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Arizona barley was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 3 percent of the crop rated fair. Fifty-four percent of Arizona's Durum wheat has emerged, and 26 percent has headed, up 27 and 25 percentage points respectively from the previous year's levels. Durum wheat condition was also rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 2 percent of the crop rated fair. Arizona's alfalfa crop was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 5 percent of the crop rated fair. Reports from southeastern counties stated that precipitation received throughout the month has helped to improve soil moisture levels and annual weeds have become vegetatively active as a result. Twenty-four percent of the State's pasture and rangeland was rated very poor, 13 percent was rated poor, 39 percent was rated fair, 22 percent was rated good, and 2 percent was rated excellent. Reports from Apache and Navajo Counties stated that ranchers have reported 0% water storage in tanks, earthen dams, and springs. Topsoil moisture levels remained mostly adequate, with 13 percent rated very short, 12 percent rated short, 63 percent rated adequate, and 12 percent rated surplus. Subsoil moisture levels followed a similar trend. Throughout the month of February, measurable precipitation was received across much of the State. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), almost all areas of Arizona received at least 1 to 2 inches of precipitation excluding areas within the Painted Desert which received anywhere from 0.10 to 0.50 inch. The final drought information statement for northern Arizona was released on February 17 as drought conditions have improved to D2 or better. Water year precipitation throughout the area has reached 70-90% of normal. Although above normal precipitation was received throughout a majority of southeastern Arizona over the last 30 days, the drought information statement was updated on February 22 in response to below normal average precipitation experienced in portions of Graham and Greenlee Counties. According to the National Weather Service, Arizona has experienced several widespread rain events over the last 30 days. Despite recent precipitation, the seasonal outlook for March, April, and May shows equal odds for either above, near, or below normal seasonal mean temperatures and seasonal total precipitation. Subsequently, Arizona's seasonal drought outlook shows that conditions are expected to persist throughout central and eastern regions of the State. Streamflow conditions across Arizona have largely improved throughout the month of February. However, streamflow in the Upper San Pedro in addition to portions of the Upper and Lower Colorado River Basins continues to be well below normal. As of February 20, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed an improvement in conditions when compared to that of the previous report. Abnormally dry conditions (D0) spanned 38 percent of the State, moderate drought (D1) enveloped 30 percent, severe drought (D2) encompassed 16 percent, and extreme drought (D3) fell to 2 percent of the State's total land area. Arizona once again remained free of exceptional (D4) drought. Throughout the month of February, temperatures across much of the State increased or remained near normal according to the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC). Daytime highs throughout Arizona ranged from 3 degrees below to 4 degrees above normal and ranged from the low 40s in Coconino County to the low 70s across southwestern regions of the State. Overnight lows ranged from 2 degrees below to 5 degrees above normal and ranged from 20 to 40 degrees across northern and eastern counties, whereas southwestern counties experienced lows of 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. ARKANSAS: For the week ending February 25, 2024, topsoil moisture 1% very short, 2% short, 68% adequate, 29% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 3% short, 60% adequate, 35% surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork during the month of February were 16.0 days. February conditions for the State were above average for precipitation and temperatures. These warm temperatures have resulted in early budding of some fruit trees that will potentially be damaged by any frost experienced in April. Fields were wet and unworkable for most of the month. Some burndown has started. Livestock producers were still feeding hay and supplements as needed. CALIFORNIA: For the week ending February 25 - Days suitable for fieldwork 6.5. Topsoil moisture 75% adequate and 25% surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% short, 75% adequate and 20% surplus. Winter wheat condition 5% fair, 20% good and 75% excellent. Pasture and range condition 40% fair, 25% good, and 35% excellent. As of February 23, snowpack content ranged from 14.5 to 23.1 inches in the Northern, Southern and Central Sierras, well below average for this time of year. According to the California Department of Water Resources at the beginning of February, the State had around half of the snowpack it should have for this time of year. Despite this, water storage levels remained strong. In the first half of the month, the State experienced torrential rainstorms that led to expansive flooding and damage from strong winds. As of February 20, around 93% of the State was not in drought. Growth in newly planted winter wheat, barley, and oats for grain and forage was accelerated by continuous moisture. Herbicides and pesticides were applied to wheat and forage crop fields. Storms delayed some vegetable crop harvests. Broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots, celery, and cabbage harvests continued. Daikon radish fields approached harvest. Lettuce, onions, garlic, and some peas have been planted. Lemon, Navel orange, tangerine, pummelo, and grapefruit harvests continued. Rainstorms delayed harvest for many citrus fruits leading to larger fruit sizes. Almond and peach trees were in bloom. Bees were moved into the State to prepare for spring pollination and placed in almond orchards between rainstorms. Olives were pruned. Because of the warmer winter, blueberries started waking from dormancy earlier than in previous years. Sheep continued grazing on retired cropland, harvested grain fields, and dormant alfalfa fields. Calving and lambing seasons continued. COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the entire month of February 2024. Topsoil moisture 5% very short, 17% short, 65% adequate, 13% excellent. Subsoil moisture 8% very short, 19% short, 61% adequate, 12% excellent. Winter wheat condition 3% very poor, 4% poor, 37% fair, 49% good, 7% excellent. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 10% fair, 79% good, 7% excellent. Pasture and range condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 18% fair, 69% good, 9% excellent. Seasonal moisture during February improved the outlook in areas across the State, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. According to the U.S Drought Monitor, 63 percent of the State was showing no signs of drought, up from 42 percent at the end of January. Under 4 percent of the State is in a state of severe drought, down from almost 7 percent at the end of January. Conditions in the south-central area of the State improved, with areas of Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, and Rio Grande Counties no longer under extreme drought conditions. Snow events brought above average moisture conditions across the eastern portion of the State, while western counties and the high country primarily experienced below average moisture throughout the month of February. Northwestern counties were experiencing warmer than average temperatures, with areas of Moffat and Rio Blanco Counties realizing temperatures more than 6 degrees above normal. Reporters noted snowpack in the area is average, with warmer temperatures having melted snow and created issues with mud. Northeastern and east-central counties received more than 200 percent of normal moisture in February, with most of the area receiving more than an inch of moisture. Southwestern counties received varying amounts of moisture in February, with totals ranging from a quarter of an inch to more than 5 inches in the high country. Reporters noted the conditions the last few weeks depleted topsoil moisture, but winter moisture has improved subsoil moisture conditions. Snowpack in the area remains below average and is currently 89 percent of median snowfall. Snowstorms during February in San Luis Valley improved moisture conditions, but most of the area remains in moderate or severe drought according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. According to county reports, livestock remained in good condition, with calving and lambing starting off well. Statewide, winter wheat condition declined, with 56 percent of the crop rated good to excellent, compared with 63 percent good to excellent from the previous report, and 29 percent good to excellent last year. As of February 26, 2024, snowpack in Colorado was 94 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. DELAWARE: February temperatures averaged between the mid 30s to the low 40s. There was an increased amount of rainfall characterized by high winds and a trace amount of snow. Soils were still saturated from the precipitation and pastures with livestock were reported in poor condition. Farmers started to service their agricultural equipment, pre-purchase seed, and were applying manure, lime, chemicals, and fertilizer to their fields as conditions allowed. FLORIDA: February temperatures were on par with historical averages, with temperatures fluctuating throughout the month. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.6 inch of rain in Marion County to 5.5 inches in Washington County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 2.5 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 2.7 percent at the month's beginning. Most of the State received moderate amounts of rainfall in February with heavier amounts of rainfall received at the end of the month. Pasture conditions remained mostly fair to good and seem to have improved since January with this month's more favorable weather conditions. As pasture conditions improved, availability of grazing also improved. Livestock remained in mostly fair to good condition as well, despite a hay shortage at the beginning of the month. Strawberry producers in central Florida experienced significant fruit damage and drop from mid-month rain and wind events. Sugarcane operations progressed throughout the month but remained slightly behind schedule. Citrus grove activities throughout the month included spraying pesticides and nutritionals, laying herbicide, fertilizing, mowing, hedging, topping, removal of dead trees, replanting young trees, and general grove maintenance. Eleven packinghouses were active in early and late February. Heavy rains delayed rice planting. Other crops that were planted and harvested include tomatoes, green beans, yellow squash, zucchini, sweet corn, eggplant, peppers, boniato, bitter melon, other Asian vegetables, avocado, and other tropical fruits. GEORGIA: February temperatures ranged from no difference to 4.9 degrees warmer than historical averages depending on location. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 1.6 inches in Bartow County to 8.1 inches in Muscogee County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 3.5 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 8.8 percent abnormally dry and 1.3 percent moderate drought at the beginning of the month. Georgia experienced unseasonably warm temperatures and some excessive rainfall during February, which impacted many areas of agriculture across the State. On February 12, parts of western and central Georgia experienced heavy rains and flooding. Winter grazing and cool season pastures benefitted from the recent mild winter weather and were showing growth. Ornamental plants and blueberries were beginning to bloom and peach buds were swelling with the recent warm temperatures. Livestock producers continued to feed hay with supplies noted to be tight in some areas. Cover crops and small grains conditions were improving with the warmer temperatures. Fields were being fertilized as field conditions permitted. The excess rainfall did cause flooding in some wheat fields. Onions were progressing well with solid stands. As fields begin to dry out, farmers are beginning to prepare fields for planting. HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE IDAHO: Idaho experienced mild, slightly warmer than normal temperatures in January. Accumulated precipitation was below average in the northern part of the State and average to above average in the southern part of the State. The soil was heavily saturated, creating muddy conditions for cattle operations. Spring calving was underway. Ada and Owyhee Counties reported significant moisture in the mountains and valleys. Producers reported that calving and lambing were progressing well, and hay stocks were sufficient. Initial spring field work was beginning. Owyhee County added that topsoil and mild moisture levels were better than anticipated. Bud break for the trees was early, and multiple varieties came out of dormancy. Perennial grasses were still dormant, but annual broadleaves were flourishing. Jerome and Twin Falls Counties reported that calving and lambing were well underway. Most fields were still too wet for field work. Camas and Gooding Counties reported two feet of snow on the valley floor slowly melting into the ground. Blaine County also reported that most pasture and cropland was covered with snow. Bonneville and Madison Counties reported satisfactory moisture levels. Though the snowpack was a little light, reservoir levels were good. Hay stocks were dwindling but should be enough for a normal spring season. Like the rest of the State, Clark, Fremont, and Madison Counties reported slightly warmer than average temperatures for the month. Clark, Custer, and Lemhi reported that ranchers were busy with calving season. ILLINOIS: For the month of February 2024. Topsoil moisture supply was rated 3% very short, 26% short, 69% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 10% very short, 21% short, 67% adequate, and 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 30% fair, 49% good, and 17% excellent. Statewide, the average temperature was 39.5 degrees, 9.9 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 0.43 inch, 1.27 inches below normal. INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of February was 2% very short, 13% short, 67% adequate, and 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 5% very short, 22% short, 64% adequate, and 9% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 26% fair, 59% good, and 11% excellent. Statewide temperatures averaged 38.1 degrees, 8.3 degrees above normal for the month of February. Statewide average precipitation was 0.94 inch, 1.03 inches below normal. Compared to previous years, February was unseasonably warm. Winter wheat condition remained stable despite temperature fluctuations and depleting soil moisture levels for many. Indiana witnessed a variety of forms of precipitation in February, including snow, rain, and thunderstorms. Isolated instances of brush fires were reported in drier parts of the State. Other activities for the week included grain shipping, fertilizer applications, and attending grower meetings and trainings. IOWA: The beginning of February brought some precipitation to the State, although the eastern half saw more precipitation than the western half. Overall, February was drier than usual and much warmer than average. Given the weather conditions, field activities have already commenced. Activities have been primarily fertilizer and manure applications with some tillage reported. Although unusually early, reports of oats seeded were received. Overall, livestock conditions have been good, with reports of calving. Grain movement picked up this month compared to January. The lack of moisture continues to be a concern for the State's farm operators as they contemplate the 2024 crop year. KANSAS: For the week ending February 25, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies rated 4% very short, 26% short, 67% adequate, 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 8% very short, 33% short, 57% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 5% very poor, 8% poor, 30% fair, 50% good, 7% excellent. KENTUCKY: For the month of February, Kentucky saw well above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation. At this point, we are in the midst of one of the warmest Februarys in state history. Although rainfall was very scattered, there was enough precipitation to remove Kentucky from the drought monitor when coupled with January totals. Temperatures for the period averaged 45 degrees across the State, 8 degrees above normal. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 2.45 inches Statewide, which was 0.79 inch below normal and 76% of normal. Hay stocks are dwindling for many. As a result, producers are purchasing more hay and, in some instances, reducing herds. For the month, hay supplies 13% very short, 34% short, 49% adequate, 4% surplus. Livestock condition 5% poor, 23% fair, 59% good, 13% excellent. Condition of winter wheat 1% poor, 10% fair, 75% good, 14% excellent. LOUISIANA: For the week ending February 25, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies were 1% very short, 7% short, 83% adequate, and 9% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 1% very short, 29% short, 63% adequate, and 7% surplus. There were 21 days suitable for fieldwork during the month of February. Favorable conditions persisted following the significant rain that the State received last month. Pastures continued to make good growth, and many producers were fertilizing ryegrass. Fruit trees were beginning to break dormancy, and vegetable growers were planting potatoes and spring vegetables. Many producers were draining ponds and beginning spring tillage to prepare fields for planting row crops. MARYLAND: February was characterized by wet and mild weather. Temperatures were average to above average. Precipitation was normal for this time of year. Soil moisture levels continued to be in good condition. Small grains, early planted wheat and cover crops were in good condition. Nitrogen applications have been delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions. MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 12% short, 66% adequate and 21% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 17% short, 63% adequate, and 18% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 8% poor, 34% fair, 39% good, and 18% excellent. Precipitation for the month of February to date averaged 0.53 inch throughout the State, 0.74 inch below normal. Temperatures for the month of February to date averaged 31.3 degrees, 9.8 degrees above normal. Approximately 62 percent of the State experienced abnormally dry conditions or worse, with 31 percent experiencing moderate drought and 3 percent experiencing severe drought conditions, according to the US Drought Monitor. The driest areas include the northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula. February brought unseasonably warm temperatures and very little snow cover. Producers were concerned about wheat viability after an odd winter. There are reports of some 2023 corn and soybeans left to be harvested. Maple syrup production started which was the earliest anyone could remember. Other activities throughout the month included crop planning, equipment maintenance and tending livestock. MINNESOTA: Above average temperatures continued in February with little to no precipitation. The possibility of forage crops winterkill continues to concern producers. Maple trees were beginning to produce, a month ahead of normal. Some farmers were getting spring fieldwork done early. Feedlots and pastures were still muddy, but no livestock health issues were reported. MISSISSIPPI: For the week ending February 25, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies were 1% very short, 12% short, 72% adequate, and 15% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 1% very short, 16% short, 75% adequate, and 8% surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork during the month of January were 17.0 days. Conditions for most of February were mild with little to no rainfall. Cattlemen were fertilizing on rye grass and spraying weeds. Temperatures were warmer than normal but caused lower stress on livestock and pastures throughout various counties. Rainfall is still needed to help improve spring gardening growth. Overall, mild temperatures are helping with winter forage conditions that were late due to drought. Producers expect conditions to improve from week to week as winter comes to an end. MISSOURI: For the week ending February 25, 2024. Topsoil moisture 3% very short, 24% short, 73% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture 11% very short, 27% short, 62% adequate, and 0% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 1% poor, 30% fair, 62% good, and 7% excellent. Statewide, precipitation averaged 0.64 inch for the month of February, 1.23 inches below average. Temperatures averaged 43.9 degrees, 10.0 degrees above normal. MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the entire month of February 2024. Topsoil moisture 7% very short, 45% short, 48% adequate. Subsoil moisture 23% very short, 48% short, 29% adequate. Winter wheat condition 2% poor, 53% fair, 41% good, 4% excellent. Winter wheat wind damage 24% moderate, 38% light, 38% none. Winter wheat freeze damage 10% severe, 23% moderate, 24% light, 43% none. Snow cover 12% very poor, 58% poor, 27% fair, 3% good. Pasture and range condition 24% very poor, 38% poor, 34% fair, 3% good, 1% excellent. Grazing accessibility 64% open, 23% difficult, 13% closed. Cows calved 13%. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 97%. Ewes lambed 9%. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 96%. The month of February brought mostly above normal temperatures and slightly above normal precipitation to much of Montana, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Temperatures ran highest in the eastern third of the State. Temperatures ran as high as 16 to 20 degrees above average in parts of the northeast, according to data from the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC). Average temperatures ran lower in the west. Moisture levels were in a range of approximately 0.5 to 1.0 inch above average for much of Montana. Parts of Cascade and Madison Counties, as well as surrounding areas, received moisture as much as 1.5 inches above normal. Precipitation levels in the west, and in some parts of the east and southeast, were closer to average or below normal. Drought conditions deteriorated once again according to the U.S. Drought Monitor report released on February 20, 2024. The amount of land rated drought free fell to 12 percent, down from 20 percent as reported on January 23, 2024. Abnormal dryness was found in 45 percent of the State, up 4 percentage points. Moderate drought stood at 22 percent, down from 26 percent on the report published on January 23. Severe drought conditions increased to 20 percent, up 7 percentage points. Extreme drought, which has not been seen since the first part of November, was found in about 1 percent of Montana. Calving conditions were excellent in Powder River County with the warm and dry conditions. At the same time, the lack of moisture and high winds were a concern to many farmers and ranchers. With the higher temperatures in Wibaux County, operators were also in need of more moisture. NEBRASKA: For the week ending February 25, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies rated 7% very short, 30% short, 61% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 10% very short, 41% short, 48% adequate, and 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 2% very poor, 5% poor, 33% fair, 48% good, and 12% excellent. NEVADA: For the week ending February 25 - Days suitable for fieldwork 6.6. Topsoil moisture 35% adequate and 65% surplus. Subsoil moisture short 5%, 40% adequate and 55% surplus. Pasture and range condition 15% fair, 20% good, and 65% excellent. As of February 20, the US Drought Monitor showed 83% of the State was not in drought. Significant rainstorms throughout the month have led to a surplus of moisture in most of the State. Alfalfa is still dormant. Annual weeds started to germinate. NEW ENGLAND: New England states experienced warmer than normal temperatures in February without much moisture. In Vermont, there was very little snow cover with much freezing and thawing raising concern for winter kill in sod ground. Flooding was not of major concern at this point with most waters being open due to warm temperatures this winter. Daytime highs averaged around the freezing mark with nighttime temperatures averaging in the 20s. Sap began to flow across Northern New England. In Maine, the ground was still frozen in some places but overall looks good. Mud season looks like it could come early this year. Producers are still cleaning up from heavy winds and rain in December and January with some producers having to replace portions of their sap lines. Producers are also struggling with increased feed prices and having to use their surplus of silage due to low yields and quality of last year's crop. In Massachusetts, cranberry buds are dormant and in the event of a mid-winter warming, growers may need to flood the cranberry beds to maintain the dormancy as this might be followed by a cold spell. In Connecticut, there was barely any frost on the ground and lots of open water. It was not cold enough to freeze out insects or disease. Maple sap producers got an early start this year and have been reporting great sap production. NEW JERSEY: In February, there was below average precipitation, but soil was still overly moist in most areas due to January rain, preventing most field work. Winter wheat and overwinter spinach were top-dressed in drier areas, and small plantings of spring herbs were underway. Greenhouse tomatoes were starting to be harvested, with no reports of greenhouse disease. NEW MEXICO: This report for New Mexico is for the month of February 2024. Topsoil moisture 41% very short, 39% short, 19% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 41% very short, 41% short, 17% adequate, 1% surplus. Pecans harvested 96%. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 34% poor, 32% fair, 29% good, 3% excellent. Cows calved 12%. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 89%. Cattle condition 6% very poor, 20% poor, 45% fair, 23% good, 6% excellent. Ewes lambed 5%. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 55%. Sheep and lambs condition 4% very poor, 14% poor, 62% fair, 19% good, 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 25% very short, 45% short, 28% adequate, 2% surplus. Stock water supplies 29% very short, 37% short, 33% adequate, 1% surplus. Most counties saw average precipitation throughout February. Pecan harvest was behind last year's progress. Measurable moisture was recorded throughout New Mexico during the month of February. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) data, counties across the State accumulated between 0.25 inch and 2 inches of precipitation in February. The Ortero-Lincoln County border measured 2 to 3 inches of precipitation and the southern half of Catron County saw over 4 inches in some areas. Reporters in the northeast noted a snowstorm early in the month and otherwise wet but warm weather throughout the month. Counties in the southwest and northeast saw above average precipitation during February, while precipitation in the southeast corner of New Mexico was below normal, despite cooler-than-average temperatures. Average temperatures during February were generally normal except for the southeastern corner of the State where temperatures dipped 1 to 5 degrees below normal, and isolated areas in the northwest that were just above normal. According to the United States Drought Monitor for February 20, exceptional drought (D4) had improved since January, dropping from 6 percent last month to 4 percent. The worst of the drought conditions remained in Eddy County and parts of Chaves County. Extreme drought (D3) was noted across 16 percent of the State, severe drought (D2) covered 29 percent, moderate drought (D1) covered 40 percent, and abnormal dryness (D0) covered 9 percent. Drought-free conditions were present in 3 percent of the State, up from 1 percent last month. Hay and roughage supplies were reported as 25 percent very short, 45 percent short, 28 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus, nearly unchanged from 28 percent very short, 45 percent short, 25 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus last month. Stock water supplies were reported as 29 percent very short, 37 percent short, 33 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus compared with 21 percent very short, 30 percent short, and 49 percent adequate last month. NEW YORK: February continued with milder temperatures with some temperature swings. Snow cover was not consistent, and concern was expressed if there could be impact to winter and perennial crops as well as honeybee colonies. This concern was also expressed among Maple Syrup producers and Fruit growers. Many operators took advantage of the warmer temperatures and spread manure and applied fertilizer as well as maintained machinery. Some areas experienced muddy conditions due to rain. Long Island vineyards were able to do some dormant pruning. NORTH CAROLINA: For the month of February 2024. Subsoil moisture 6% short, 92% adequate and 2% surplus. Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 9% short, 86% adequate and 3% surplus. Barley condition 2% very poor, 4% poor, 13% fair, 77% good and 4% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 7% very short, 5% short, 72% adequate and 16% surplus. Oats condition 17% fair, 79% good and 4% excellent. Pasture and range condition 1% very poor, 4% poor, 67% fair, 26% good and 2% excellent. Winter wheat condition 2% poor, 9% fair, 85% good and 4% excellent. Throughout February, there was consistent moisture from rainfall. Most field activities have occurred uninterrupted. NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending February 25, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies, 14% very short, 36% short, 48% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies, 14% very short, 36% short, 48% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition, 1% very poor, 6% poor, 45% fair, 47% good, 1% excellent. Cattle and calf conditions, 1% very poor, 2% poor, 17% fair, 70% good, 10% excellent. Cattle and calf death loss, 0% heavy, 40% average, 60% light. Calving progress, 12% complete. Sheep and lamb conditions, 0% very poor, 2% poor, 16% fair, 72% good, 10% excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss, 0% heavy, 48% average, 52% light. Lambing progress, 24% complete. Shearing progress, 35% complete. Hay and roughage supplies, 2% very short, 8% short, 82% adequate, 8% surplus. Stock water supplies, 4% very short, 16% short, 79% adequate, 1% surplus. OHIO: Topsoil moisture for the month was 0% very short, 4% short, 70% adequate, 26% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 0% very short, 8% short, 83% adequate, 9% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 0% very poor, 3% poor, 29% fair, 56% good, 12% excellent. The Statewide average temperature was 37.4 degrees, 7.9 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 1.02 inches Statewide, 0.98 inch below normal for February. Warmer than normal temperatures have been observed across the State. Any snow that fell lasted a short time. Overall, a mild winter was reported. Reporters noted that the soil has been wet but it was retaining the much-needed moisture. Livestock producers described stressed livestock due to the swings in temperature. OKLAHOMA: For the month of February, rainfall totals averaged 1.21 inches throughout the State, with the Northeast district recording the highest precipitation at 1.77 inches and the Panhandle district recording the lowest precipitation at 0.51 inch. According to the February 20 US Drought Monitor Report, 17 percent of the State was in the abnormally dry to exceptional drought category, down 64 points from the previous year. Additionally, 3 percent of the State was in the moderate drought to exceptional drought category, down 72 points from the previous year. Statewide temperatures averaged in the lower 40's to lower 50's, with the lowest recording of 12 degrees at Kenton on Sunday February 18, and the highest recording of 87 degrees at Waurika on Wednesday, February 21. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly short to adequate. OREGON: Temperatures throughout the State ranged from normal to above normal. Moisture conditions throughout the State ranged from dry to very wet for February. Columbia, Multnomah, and Washington Counties reported saturated soil with conditions too wet for field work. Low temperatures affected crop progress, but yields should not be affected. Clatsop and Tillamook Counties reported above average precipitation with wet field conditions. Some field work and manure applications were done on the dry days. Pasture growth remained dormant. Morrow County reported above average precipitation. The wheat crop emerged and was in good condition, with no signs of stripe rust. Producers and farmers were on the lookout for this disease. Herbicide applications began in fields with no-till fallow. Gilliam, Hood River, Wheeler, and Wasco Counties reported a positive outlook for crops despite the recent winter spell. Calving season was in good condition. Baker and Grant Counties reported above normal temperatures. Livestock lambing and calving were in good condition due to the warmer weather. Some producers' fields were dry enough for field work. Umatilla County reported that most winter wheat fields were doing well despite some cold injury from the previous month. Stripe rust was forecasted to be a potential detriment this season. Douglas, Jackson, and Josephine Counties reported a moisture surplus in pastures. PENNSYLVANIA: The State continued to experience mild weather conditions this month. The warmer weather conditions and increasing daylight hours has allowed more time for farmers to be in the fields. Farmers were pleased with the improved soil and subsoil moisture levels. Some farmers will soon begin to top-dress small grains with nitrogen fertilizer when conditions allow. Small grains and forage like wheat, barley, and rye were starting to green up. Maple sap has been running for a few weeks. SOUTH CAROLINA: February temperatures ranged from no difference to 3.6 degrees warmer than historical averages, depending on location. Total rainfall during the month ranged from 1.2 inches in Cherokee County to 5.1 inches in Colleton County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the State had no drought classification throughout the entire month. Weather conditions during the month permitted for great working days. Producers were able to prepare fields for corn and cotton planting with chicken litter applications being made and fields being burnt down. Livestock were noted to be in good condition. Greenhouses in the Pee Dee region were being prepared and planted with tobacco seed. Hay inventory should be sufficient as pasture began to improve with the warmer temperatures and rainfall. Small grains were continuing to do well with wheat tillering with good vigor. SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending February 25, 2024, topsoil moisture supplies rated 5% very short, 24% short, 69% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 5% very short, 29% short, 65% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 6% poor, 35% fair, 55% good, and 3% excellent. TENNESSEE: For the week ending February 25, Days suitable 4.6. Topsoil moisture 4% short, 76% adequate, 20% surplus. Subsoil moisture is 1% very short, 7% short, 78% adequate, 14% surplus. Winter wheat condition 11% poor, 37% fair, 40% good, 12% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 6% very poor, 20% poor, 40% fair, 32% good, 2% excellent. Cattle condition 1% very poor, 4% poor, 32% fair, 56% good, and 7% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies are 7% very short, 34% short, 54% adequate, 5% surplus. Tennessee received moderate rainfall and slightly above average temperatures so far in February. Most producers report that seeded winter wheat remains in good shape thus far. Pastures are slowly recovering from the fall drought and January deep freeze with cool season grasses starting to come in. Pasture regrowth cannot come soon enough, as many cattle producers face low hay supplies. Weather permitting, producers have begun spreading fertilizer and spraying pasture and hay fields. Gearing up for the growing season ahead. TEXAS: For the month of February, precipitation ranged from trace amounts to upwards of 5 inches, with East Texas, South Central, the Upper Coast, and the Lower Valley districts receiving the most. Winter wheat and oats showed improvement and progressed due to the moisture and warm temperatures. Range and pasture conditions were mostly rated fair to poor, with winter forages greening up due to favorable growing conditions. Livestock producers continued supplemental feeding across the State. UTAH: This report for Utah is for the entire month of February 2024. Topsoil moisture 5% very short, 12% short, 74% adequate, 9% surplus. Subsoil moisture 11% short, 80% adequate, 9% surplus. Pasture and range condition 18% poor, 37% fair, 42% good, 3% excellent. Winter wheat condition 8% poor, 14% fair, 69% good, 9% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 5% very short, 7% short, 70% adequate, 18% surplus. Stock water supplies 83% adequate, 17% surplus. Cattle and calves condition 7% poor, 17% fair, 66% good, 10% excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 11% poor, 21% fair, 54% good, 14% excellent. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for cattle 89%. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for sheep 89%. Cows calved 10%. Ewes lambed - farm flock 5%. Ewes lambed - range flock 5%. Cold temperatures along with isolated snowstorms occurred throughout the State for the month of February. Snowpack in Utah, according to Natural Resources Conservation Service as of February 26, 2024, was 115 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. Cache County reported winter wheat suspectable to snow mold. Beaver County reports noted that livestock producers were dealing with no calving and lambing issues. VIRGINIA: Topsoil moisture 9% short, 79% adequate, 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 9% short, 82% adequate, 8% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 5% poor, 47% fair, 41% good, 5% excellent. Barley condition 1% very poor, 2% poor, 59% fair, 35% good, 3% excellent. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 5% poor, 41% fair, 46% good, 7% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 10% very poor, 24% poor, 32% fair, 31% good, 3% excellent. Hay supplies 12% very short, 34% short, 49% adequate, 5% surplus. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 7%. Virginia temperatures and precipitation have varied throughout February. Some pastures continue to be holding excess water in low-lying areas which has proved to be a challenge for some farmers. Pasture and range conditions are mostly fair. Hay and roughage supplies are mostly adequate to short. Primary activities for the month include preparing to seed tobacco greenhouses, reading soil samples, applying lime, and spreading other soil additives. WASHINGTON: Western Washington saw a warmer February than usual. There was less precipitation than normal. In central Washington, operations saw typical February weather, with less precipitation than normal. There was a week of snow, which all melted and helped the soil profile. Crops were getting through the winter in good shape. In Yakima County, significant progress was made in pruning orchards and vineyards, with some orchard removal. Fields of hay, winter wheat, and grasses were greening up. In east-central Washington, producers experienced moderate weather during February. It was too early to tell if the cold snap in January damaged any of the winter wheat crowns. Northeastern Washington had a mild February. There were few reports about winter kill on winter wheat and canola, and calving was underway. In southeast Washington, February brought spring like conditions with little precipitation, causing the snowpack to be well below normal. WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending February 25, Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 16% short, 74% adequate, and 9% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 19% short, 73% adequate, and 7% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 2% very short, 11% short, 83% adequate, and 4% surplus. Feed grain supplies 25% very short, 29% short, 45% adequate, and 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 3% fair, 96% good, and 1% excellent. Cattle and calves condition 2% poor, 17% fair, 76% good, and 5% excellent. Percent calved 26%. Sheep and lambs condition 2% poor, 7% fair, 88% good, and 3% excellent. Percent lambed 22%. Weather conditions for the month have been wet, with some area flooding, along with a mix of snow as temperatures fluctuated. Farming activities for the month included calving and lambing, cleaning up debris from area flooding, and repairing fences. WISCONSIN: February temperatures averaged 30.8 degrees, 12.3 degrees above normal. The State averaged 0.40 inch of precipitation throughout the month, 0.47 inch below normal. One storm left around six inches of snow cover, however, most of the snow melted quickly due to warmer than average temperatures. Maple sap season began sooner than typical, and spring fieldwork could get an early start. There are still concerns over winter freeze damage because of large temperature fluctuations and lack of snow cover. WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of February 2024. Topsoil moisture 12% very short, 45% short, 43% adequate. Subsoil moisture 20% very short, 46% short, 34% adequate. Winter wheat condition 4% very poor, 11% poor, 59% fair, 25% good, 1 percent excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 2% short, 90% adequate, 7% surplus. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 2% poor, 6% fair, 84% good, 7% excellent. Stock water supplies 3% very short, 10% short, 85% adequate, 2% surplus. Pasture and range condition 2% very poor, 8% poor, 58% fair, 30% good, 2% surplus. Wyoming received little relief from the ongoing drought conditions during the month of February. Precipitation was scattered and total accumulations varied, ranging from a trace to as much as 6 inches during the month, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Temperatures across the State were warmer than normal, ranging from 2 to 10 degrees above average. Drought conditions in the State slightly improved during February according to the United States Drought Monitor report published on February 20, 2024. The amount of land rated drought free equaled 44 percent, compared with 41 percent on January 23, 2024. Abnormally dry conditions covered 34 percent of the State, moderate drought was found in 16 percent, and severe drought was found in 6 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). 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. Chris Hawthorn, Acting Chief, Crops Branch........................................... (202) 720-2127 Travis Thorson, Acting Head, Field Crops Section..................................... (202) 720-2127 Irwin Anolik - Crop Progress and Condition...................................... (202) 720-7621 Joshua Bates - Hemp, Oats, Soybeans............................................. (202) 690-3234 Natasha Bruton - Barley, Cotton System Consumption and Stocks, Grain Crushings.. (202) 690-1042 David Colwell - Fats and Oils, Flour Milling Products........................... (202) 720-8800 Michelle Harder - County Estimates, Hay......................................... (202) 690-8533 James Johanson - Rye, Wheat..................................................... (202) 720-8068 Greg Lemmons - Corn, Flaxseed, Proso Millet..................................... (202) 720-9526 Becky Sommer - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum................................. (202) 720-5944 Travis Thorson - Sunflower, Other Oilseeds...................................... (202) 720-7369 Travis Thorson - Peanuts, Rice.................................................. (202) 720-2127 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. Both national and state 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" or "State" in upper right corner above "search" box to create an account and select the reports you would like to receive. Cornell's Mann Library has launched a new website housing NASS's and other agency's archived reports. The new website, https://usda.library.cornell.edu. All email subscriptions containing reports will be sent from the new website, https://usda.library.cornell.edu. To continue receiving the reports via e-mail, you will have to go to the new website, create a new account and re-subscribe to the reports. If you need instructions to set up an account or subscribe, they are located at: https://usda.library.cornell.edu/help. You should whitelist notifications@usda-esmis.library.cornell.edu in your email client to avoid the emails going into spam/junk folders. For more information on NASS surveys and reports, call the NASS Agricultural Statistics Hotline at (800) 727-9540, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET, or e-mail: nass@usda.gov. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the Department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment activities.) If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF), found online at www.ascr.usda.gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.