Crop Progress - State Stories ISSN: 2470-9816 Released April 2, 2025, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ALABAMA: March temperatures were slightly warmer than historical averages. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 2.2 inches in Tuscaloosa County to 9.5 inches in Marshall County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 43.6 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 47.9 percent at the month's beginning. Some parts of the State experienced extreme weather events like high winds, heavy rain, and tornadoes throughout the month, but no reports of any significant damages to crops. Producers in Covington County were still working to address the damaged fields from the previous month's extreme cold weather. The rain received combined with drought conditions caused several counties to experience flooding which led to erosion and debris. Winter wheat, fescue, and canola were thriving across the State with the warmer temperatures and more frequent rainfall. Many producers were prepping the fields for spring planting for crops such as cotton, peanuts, and soybeans. Many have started planting corn in the central and southern areas of the State. Some livestock producers continued to supplement cattle with hay and feed as pastures continued to green up. Overall, cattle and pastures were in good condition, with pastures improving as the month progressed. ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE ARIZONA: This report for Arizona is for the week ending March 30, 2025. Responses were based on the entire week with consideration for any weather-related impacts. By week's end, 12 percent of Arizona cotton had been planted, up 1 percentage point from the State's 5-year average, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Ninety-four percent of Arizona's barley had emerged, of which 24 percent had headed, down 2 and 37 percentage points, respectively, from the State's 5-year average. Barley was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 4 percent of the crop rated fair. Twenty-one percent of Arizona's Durum wheat had headed, down 26 percentage points from the State's 5-year average. Durum wheat was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 6 percent of the crop rated fair. Alfalfa hay harvest continued to take place on about 55 percent of the crop's acreage throughout the State. Arizona's alfalfa crop was rated in mostly good to excellent condition, with only 4 percent of the crop rated fair. Pasture and range conditions throughout the State deteriorated slightly when compared to that of the previous report. Thirty-three percent of the State's pasture and rangeland was rated very poor, 45 percent was rated poor, 19 percent was rated fair, and 3 percent was rated good. Reports from southeastern counties have stated that spring growth on rangelands has been extremely minimal and that ranchers continue to transport feed and water to rangeland livestock. Several ranchers have reported increased levels of coyote predation given the lack of native prey caused by drought. Reports from Graham and Greenlee County farmers have stated that both ground and surface water levels have dropped significantly resulting from irrigation. Many farmers throughout the area are considering prevented plantings, chose not to plant, or have planted decreased acreages of crops because of enduring drought. Topsoil moisture levels remained mostly adequate, with 17 percent rated very short, 19 percent rated short, and 64 percent rated adequate. Subsoil moisture levels followed a similar trend. Over the past week, measurable precipitation was lacking across much of the State, however, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), isolated areas along the western San Francisco Plateau as well as western portions of the Grand Canyon accumulated approximately 0.25 inch of total precipitation. All remaining areas of the State stayed relatively dry. Arizona's drought information statements remained in effect in response to enduring above average temperatures and below average precipitation. The seasonal mean temperature outlook continues to show that temperatures will likely be above normal for the entirety of the State, with the eastern quarter of Arizona having a higher probability of experiencing warmer temperatures than the remainder of the State. Similarly, the seasonal total precipitation outlook continues to show that precipitation will likely be below normal for the entirety of Arizona, with the Four Corners region having a higher probability of experiencing below average precipitation than the remainder of the State. Arizona's seasonal drought outlook continues to show that conditions are expected to persist throughout all areas of the State that were affected by moderate drought (D1) or higher on March 18. Drought is expected to develop across all remaining areas of the State. As 120-day precipitation has been less than 25 percent of normal throughout many areas, streamflow in all river basins south of the Mogollon Rim, excluding portions of the Lower Gila and Santa Cruz River Basins, are currently flowing at below normal to historically low levels. Similarly, river basins north of the Mogollon Rim, excluding portions of the Upper Colorado River Basin, are currently flowing at below normal levels. As of March 25, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed a slight deterioration in conditions when compared to that of the previous report. Abnormally dry conditions (D0) covered 1 percent of the State, moderate drought (D1) encompassed 11 percent, severe drought (D2) enveloped 32 percent, extreme drought (D3) spanned 48 percent, and exceptional drought (D4) bounded 7 percent of the State's total land area. Over the past week, temperatures were at or above normal according to the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC). Daytime highs throughout Arizona ranged from 4 to 10 degrees above normal and ranged from the mid 50's in southern Apache County to the upper 90's across south-central regions of the State. Overnight lows ranged from 2 to 10 degrees above normal and ranged from 25 to 45 degrees across northern and eastern counties, whereas counties within the Sonoran Desert experienced lows of 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. ARKANSAS: For the week ending March 30, 2025, Topsoil moisture supplies were 5 percent very short, 24 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 6 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 3 percent very short, 20 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 12 percent surplus. There were 5.7 days suitable for fieldwork during the week. March conditions started wet which prevented field work through most the State. In the latter part of the month, conditions dried which allowed some early tillage. Producers were planting corn, rice, and soybeans throughout the State. Other producers were fertilizing cool season forages and controlling winter weeds. CALIFORNIA: For the week ending March 30, 2025, days suitable for fieldwork 6.8. Topsoil moisture 85% adequate and 15% surplus. Subsoil moisture 85% adequate and 15% surplus. Pasture and range condition 5% fair, 20% good, and 75% excellent. Winter wheat condition 5% fair, 25% good, and 70% excellent. As of March 28, snowpack content ranged from 18 to 29.2 inches in the Northern, Southern, and Central Sierras. Winter grains and alfalfa were growing well. Rainfall during the month provided ample moisture. Fields that were planted early enough were approaching harvest. Alfalfa was sprayed with insecticides and herbicides. Corn, wheat, and oat fields were sprayed with herbicides. Oat crop began to flower out. Wheat crop was growing tall and began to seed out. Some small onion and cabbage harvests began. Farmers began prepping fields for the upcoming tomato season. Sweet potato fields were planted. Garlic crop was growing well. Watermelon fields were prepped and planted. Almond bloom was complete, and bee colonies were removed from orchards. Almonds began to develop. Walnut and pistachio orchards began to bloom and leaf out. Growers sprayed their orchards with fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides. Stone fruit orchards were sprayed with fungicides and herbicides. Cherries, nectarines, and peaches were still in bloom. Apricot bloom came to an end. Persimmon and pomegranate trees began to develop foliage. Grape vineyards were fertilized and sprayed with fungicides and herbicides. Grape and kiwi vineyards woke from dormancy. Citrus groves were treated for pests and weeds. Bee colonies were placed in some citrus groves for pollination. Navel orange, Blood orange, Star Ruby grapefruit, tangelo, mandarin, and lemon harvests continued. Seedless citrus varieties were netted. Olive groves were sprayed with herbicides. Olive tree buds began to swell. Blueberry fields were in full bloom with bees pollinating and berries forming. Blackberries were leafing out. Strawberry field harvest began. Storms later in the month brought extra precipitation to pastureland. Rangeland remained green and lush with mild temperatures and ample rain. Non- irrigated pastures were in good condition while irrigated pastures were in good to excellent condition. COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the week ending March 30, 2025. Topsoil moisture 21% very short, 30% short, 47% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture 17% very short, 28% short, 52% adequate, 3% surplus. Barley planted 4%, 11% 2024, 10% avg. Winter wheat pastured 3%, 9% 2024, 9% avg, jointed 3%. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 7% poor, 24% fair, 52% good, 15% excellent. Cows calved 52%, 59% 2024, 64% avg. Ewes lambed 56%, 48% 2024, 54% avg. Livestock condition 3% very poor, 9% poor, 23% fair, 53% good, 12% excellent. Cattle death loss 3% heavy, 25% avg, 72% light. Sheep death loss 2% heavy, 35% avg, 63% light. Pasture and range condition 12% very poor, 25% poor, 32% fair, 25% good, 6% excellent. Feed and concentrate supplies 4% very short, 14% short, 65% adequate, 17% surplus. Hot and windy conditions were followed by rain and snowfall across several areas of the State. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor published on March 27, 62 percent of the State was abnormally dry or in a state of drought, up from 34 percent a year ago. Over 8 percent of the State was in severe to exceptional drought. Extreme drought conditions continued in areas of northern Larimer and Weld Counties, as well as Archuleta, Conejos, and Rio Grande Counties, with just over 1 percent of the State under extreme drought conditions. According to the High Plains Regional Climate Center, most of the State experienced temperatures well above average last week. Some locales were more than 10 degrees above average. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data, northeastern and east central counties received moisture averaging 0.5 to over 1.5 inches. Reports from Grand and Jackson Counties stated the weather was mild last week and calving had not begun in earnest yet for most cattle producers. In east central counties, high winds were observed followed by rain and snow. A report from Kit Carson County noted weekend moisture was already improving soil moisture supplies. In the San Luis Valley, fieldwork preparations and barley planting continued. Conditions were dry. As of March 31, 2025, snowpack in Colorado was 85 percent measured as percent of median snowfall according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA. The Southwest and San Luis Valley were 63 and 61 percent, respectively. DELAWARE: In March, abnormally warm weather with low rainfall levels were reported. Due to some rain and moisture conditions, small grains quickly grew, with hay and pastures beginning to green up. FLORIDA: March temperatures were slightly warmer than normal compared to historic averages. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.1 inch of rain in Sarasota County to 9.6 inches in Escambia County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 58.3 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 63.6 percent at the month's beginning. Cover crops and winter grazing continued to improve with the warmer temperatures and sporadic rain showers. At the beginning of the month, many producers continued to spend time on field preparations for spring planting. By the middle of the month, many had begun spring planting for crops such as corn, melons, and vegetables. Producers were also burning down cover crops to prepare for planting in April. Near the end of the month, some producers started land preparation for peanuts and cotton. For many watermelon producers, planting was wrapped up near the end of the month, as blueberries were ready for harvest. Sugarcane harvest continued through March and was almost wrapped up, while rice planting progressed. General citrus grove maintenance included widely observed spraying, hedging and topping, taking out dead trees, resetting, and robust irrigation schedules. The citrus bloom and flowering stage were finished, with trees emerging into the petal drop stage and developing small marble fruit. Cattle conditions were mostly good last month. Pastures improved as temperatures increased and more frequent rainfall was received. Smaller operations in Jackson County were still supplementing cattle with hay but were starting to graze as well. GEORGIA: March temperatures were generally one to four degrees warmer than historical averages, except for some counties in the southeastern region of the State, which were one degree cooler than normal. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 2 inches to over 6 inches in some areas. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 61 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions, 27 percent had moderate drought conditions, and 1 percent had severe drought conditions by month's end, compared to 62 percent abnormally dry and 13 percent with moderate drought conditions at the month's beginning. Much of the State experienced severe storms during the month, with reports of tornadoes in some parts of the State. Despite the storms, reporters noted that dry conditions were a concern in many parts of the State. High winds were an issue for many areas, causing some wildfires and delaying spraying activities for spring planted crops. Despite these conditions, spring planting activities were reported to be mostly on schedule, with corn planting well underway in warmer areas of the State. Land preparation for cotton and peanut planting was ongoing, although concerns about cotton acreage levels due to low prices and high input costs were noted. Vegetable and fruit crops were reported to be in mostly good condition, although some frost damage was noted to peach tree blooms. Warmer temperatures helped improve pasture conditions, with cattle reported to be in mostly good condition, although supplemental feeding was still a necessity in drier areas. HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE IDAHO: The average temperatures for March were normal to slightly above normal for the State. Warmer than average temperatures in the latter part of the month allowed early spring crop plantings to begin in the southwestern part of the State. Snowpack levels remained above normal in southern Idaho, with near-average levels in the north and eastern parts of the State. Rain during the latter part of the month stalled early spring plantings in northern Idaho. Spring tillage, potato and cereal crop plantings, and manure hauling occurred in southern Idaho. Pastures were greening up and growing. Alfalfa broke dormancy. In the eastern part of the State, field conditions remained too wet or cold to work fields, although lower elevations began drying out. Hay stocks were sufficient to last until pasture became available in the east. ILLINOIS: For the week ending March 30, 2025. Topsoil moisture 7% very short, 27% short, 54% adequate, and 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture 7% very short, 40% short, 42% adequate, and 11% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% poor, 30% fair, 61% good, and 8% excellent. For the month of March, temperatures averaged 46.9 degrees, 6.1 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 2.86 inches, 0.25 inch below average. INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of March was 6% very short, 17% short, 60% adequate, 17% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 7% very short, 24% short, 58% adequate, 11% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 2% very poor, 4% poor, 22% fair, 58% good, 14% excellent. Statewide temperatures averaged 45.9 degrees, 5.4 degrees above normal. Statewide average precipitation was 3.43 inches, 0.18 inch above normal. Consistent rain throughout the month of March kept the topsoil moist. Localized storms with high winds and torrential rains closed out the month, with sporadic farm structure damage and soil erosion reported. Recent rains resulted in ponding in some fields, but subsoil moisture levels had yet to fully recharge. Winter wheat was growing, and farmers noted that cover crops helped prevent heavy soil erosion during storms. Pneumonia and insect issues were reported to be adversely affecting livestock. Producers reported sufficient hay availability. Other activities included fertilizer applications, tillage, sod harvest. IOWA: Above normal temperatures were experienced across the State in March. A mid-month blizzard affected much of the State and high winds have been an issue periodically throughout the month. Precipitation was normal to above normal for most of the State, but areas are still reporting dry conditions. Activities included spring tillage and fertilizer and manure applications. Scattered reports of oats being sown were received. Overall, livestock conditions have been normal, with lambing and calving in full swing. Grain movement to local elevators and end users continued. KANSAS: For the week ending March 30, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies rated 12% very short, 38% short, 48% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 13% very short, 36% short, 49% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 4% very poor, 13% poor, 34% fair, 43% good, 6% excellent. Winter wheat jointed 9%. Corn planted 2%. KENTUCKY: For the month of March, Kentucky saw above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation. After torrential rain and flooding in February, the State received some reprieve in March. There were some strong storms and rain in parts of the State, however conditions were significantly less severe. With that said, there was some large hail in the western part of the State, but no tornadic activity. Warmer temperatures during the month allowed plants to emerge from dormancy. Temperatures for the period averaged 51 degrees across the State, 4 degrees above normal. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 3.90 inches Statewide, which was 0.41 inch below normal and 91% of normal. As spring growth begins, hay stocks held up through the winter. For the month, hay supplies 5% very short, 15% short, 72% adequate, 8% surplus. Livestock condition 3% poor, 19% fair, 68% good, 10% excellent. Condition of winter wheat 1% poor, 14% fair, 77% good, 8% excellent. LOUISIANA: For the week ending March 30, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies were 2% very short, 4% short, 61% adequate, and 33% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 0% very short, 5% short, 70% adequate, and 25% surplus. There were 3.9 days suitable for fieldwork during the week. At the beginning of the month, many producers were unable to work in the fields due to continued rain and wet conditions. While some planting was delayed, the crawfish harvest was in full swing, with better catches reported than last year. As field conditions dried, winter forage crops flourished, and operators quickly began planting row crops. By the end of March, fruit trees were blooming, ryegrass was growing, and rice and corn planting were nearing completion. MARYLAND: In March, dry conditions for much of the State were reported. There have been instances of rain throughout the month contributing to overall progression of small grains and cover crops. Rainfall in some areas have delayed fieldwork and fertilizer applications, while dry conditions in other areas allowed for fieldwork and manure applications. There were no unusual pest or disease outbreaks reported. MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 16% short, 66% adequate, 16% surplus. Subsoil moisture 8% very short, 21% short, 59% adequate, 12% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 5% poor, 37% fair, 41% good, 17% excellent. Precipitation for the month of March averaged 3.75 inches in the State, 1.60 inches above normal. Temperatures for the month of March averaged 35.2 degrees, 4.2 degrees above normal. Overall, March was warmer and wetter than normal. Most fields remained too wet to work, though some early planting of potatoes had occurred in Southwest Michigan. Wheat fields were beginning to green up in Southern Michigan. Some farmers had the opportunity to apply nitrogen to some of their wheat fields. Maple syrup production continued. Tree fruit farmers were pruning. Strong storms in late March resulted in power outages in Southern Michigan. Near historic ice storms in the Northern Lower Peninsula damaged power lines and knocked out power to thousands of homes and businesses. Farmers were busy preparing for the upcoming planting season, caring for livestock, hauling manure, and finishing up farm and tax paperwork. MINNESOTA: March weather was warmer than usual in Minnesota, with some new high temperature records. Precipitation varied across the State, with some regions receiving over 3 inches, while others received less than a third of an inch. Some farmers began spring fieldwork, including applying fertilizer and planting small grains. Livestock were doing well with spring calving underway. MISSISSIPPI: For the week ending March 30, 2025, there were 4.1 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture supplies were 1 percent very short, 5 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 29 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 3 percent very short, 5 percent short, 65 percent adequate, and 27 percent surplus. Conditions for most of March were wet and seasonally cool. Winter wheat, though used mainly as a cover crop, has responded rapidly to the ideal weather conditions. Planting has begun for corn and some soybeans. MISSOURI: For the week ending March 30, 2025. Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 21% short, 68% adequate, and 9% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 23% short, 73% adequate, and 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 3% poor, 20% fair, 69% good, and 8% excellent. For the month of March, temperatures averaged 50.6 degrees, 6.0 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 2.27 inches, 1.13 inches below average. MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the entire month of March 2025. Topsoil moisture 22% very short, 24% short, 53% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 25% very short, 24% short, 51% adequate. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 9% poor, 32% fair, 58% good. Winter wheat wind damage 72% none, 21% light, 6% moderate, 1% heavy. Winter wheat freeze and drought damage 70% none, 20% light, 9% moderate, 1% heavy. Winter wheat protectiveness of snow cover 63% very poor, 15% poor, 11% fair, 11% good. Pasture and range condition 25% very poor, 37% poor, 37% fair, 1% good. Livestock grazing accessibility 87% open, 8% difficult, 5% closed. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 96% fed, 97% last year. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 94% fed, 99% last year. Cows calved 10%, 15% last year. Ewes lambed 5%, 12% last year. Barley planted 1%. Oats planted 1%. Winter wheat breaking dormancy 3%. March brought mostly above normal temperatures and limited precipitation. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor published for March 25, roughly 41 percent of the State was drought free, compared with 41 percent on February 27. Other drought categorizations included abnormally dry (D0) at 24 percent, moderate drought (D1) at 23 percent, severe drought (D2) at 10 percent, and extreme drought (D3) at 2 percent. Survey reports from Valley County indicated limited moisture at this point of the season. Survey reports from Wibaux County indicated very dry and windy along with limited snow cover. NEBRASKA: For the week ending March 30, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies rated 23% very short, 44% short, 33% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 35% very short, 43% short, 22% adequate, and 0% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 17% very poor, 17% poor, 36% fair, 29% good, and 1% excellent. NEVADA: For the week ending March 30, 2025, days suitable for fieldwork 7.0. Topsoil moisture 5% very short, 80% short, 10% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 25% short, 65% adequate, and 5% surplus. Pasture and range condition 15% very poor, 60% poor, 15% fair, 5% good, and 5% excellent. As of March 25, the US Drought Monitor showed that 66% of the State was not in a drought. There was some precipitation during the month, but not enough to fully recover from the dry spell at the beginning of the year. Temperatures were slightly higher than average at the end of the month. Despite the dry weather, fields were starting to green up. The Irrigation District announced full water allocations for this year and water orders have begun. NEW ENGLAND: Throughout the month of March, New England weather alternated between snowstorms and spring-like conditions. Regional monthly temperatures ranged from 21 to 50 degrees. Monthly average precipitation was 3.42 inches throughout the region. Winter markets were still going strong, especially those with a variety of vegetables on hand. Farmers attended meetings, made marketing arrangements, and were planning for the upcoming 2025 growing season. The maple season has been highly variable throughout the region due to changing temperatures. New England's maple-tapping season is running freely, and sugar shacks are boiling long hours. Maple Syrup producers have been busy this sugaring season. Most farmers have begun spreading manure on fields. Fruit growers were finishing pruning activities. Greenhouse growers were preparing for Easter and Mother's Day, spending extra money on heat to keep the seeding houses warm enough during the cold nights. NEW JERSEY: In March, New Jersey saw mild temperatures, high winds, and average precipitation. Drought conditions persisted across the State, with slow but positive recovery. Some commodities, such as rye, began emerging with fair conditions, but fields were still seeing areas of limited growth due to the harsh weather over the past several months. Fieldwork began early in the month in most areas of the State, with greenhouse operations continuing to wait for fairer weather for transplanting. NEW MEXICO: This report is for the month of March 2025. Topsoil moisture 73% very short, 25% short, 2% adequate. Subsoil moisture 73% very short, 25% short, 2% adequate. Pecans harvested 97%. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 10% poor, 20% fair, 1% good, 68% excellent. Cows calved 40%, 44% 2024. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 75%, 87% 2024. Cattle condition 2% very poor, 10% poor, 30% fair, 11% good, 47% excellent. Ewes lambed 50%, 36% 2024. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 84%, 65% 2024. Sheep and lambs condition 1% very poor, 4% poor, 47% fair, 47% good, 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 14% very short, 19% short, 67% adequate. Stock water supplies 20% very short, 20% short, 60% adequate. March for New Mexico brought mostly average temperatures and minimal precipitation. Pecan harvest progressed to 97 percent complete. Producers in Dona Ana County reported worsening drought conditions. Union County producers reported winter wheat and dryland wheat being in good condition, as well as range grasses beginning to green. According to the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC), counties in the southeastern corner of New Mexico saw minimal precipitation during the month of March while counties along the northern and western border received trace amounts of precipitation. Temperatures for the month of March were average to 2 degrees above average for most of the State, however, counties along the eastern border saw temperatures 2 to 4 degrees above average. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor for March 25, 2.5 percent of the State is now experiencing exceptional drought (D4) conditions. Extreme drought (D3) conditions increased from 14 percent last month to roughly 25 percent during the month of February. Severe drought (D2) conditions increased approximately 25 percentage points from approximately 15 percent of the State last month to roughly 40 percent of the State this month. Moderate drought (D1) conditions covered 21 percent of the State, and abnormally dry (D0) conditions covered roughly 11.5 percent. NEW YORK: March began with continued cold temperatures and some snowfall that quickly melted away as the month turned warm. A few places experienced abnormally dry conditions while others received wind and much needed rainfall towards the end of the month. Operations focused on tillage and manure spreading. Maple producers concentrated on spring field work. Some honeybee operations reported losses due to Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD). Vinyard and orchard operators wrapped up their dormant pruning and began tying canes with fruiting wire. NORTH CAROLINA: For the month ending March 30, 2025. Subsoil moisture 8% very short, 24% short, 67% adequate and 1% surplus. Topsoil moisture 7% very short, 35% short, 55% adequate and 3% surplus. Barley condition 6% fair and 94% good. Hay and roughage supplies 9% short, 82% adequate, 9% surplus. Oats condition 11% very poor, 11% poor, 29% fair, 26% good and 23% excellent. Pasture and range conditions 2% very poor, 6% poor, 66% fair, 24% good, 2% excellent. Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 2% poor, 20% fair, 61% good, 16% excellent. Throughout March, windy and dry conditions have persisted leading to poor moisture conditions. There is currently nothing too concerning regarding plans for planting. Growers are monitoring weather conditions and waiting to put seeds in the ground when conditions are most favorable. NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending March 30, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies rated 19% very short, 35% short, 44% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 22% very short, 32% short, 44% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 3% very poor, 23% poor, 36% fair, 38% good, 0% excellent. Cattle and calf conditions, 1% very poor, 2% poor, 26% fair, 63% good, 8% excellent. Cattle and calf death loss, 1% heavy, 55% average, 44% light. Calving progress, 33% complete. Sheep and lamb conditions, 1% very poor, 2% poor, 26% fair, 66% good, 5% excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss, 4% heavy, 50% average, 46% light. Lambing progress, 53% complete. Shearing progress, 58% complete. Hay and roughage supplies, 8% very short, 13% short, 75% adequate, 4% surplus. Stock water supplies, 14% very short, 25% short, 59% adequate, 2% surplus. OHIO: Topsoil moisture for the month was 2% very short, 13% short, 68% adequate, 17% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 2% very short, 22% short, 63% adequate, 13% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 2% very poor, 4% poor, 35% fair, 51% good, 8% excellent. The Statewide average temperature was 44.7 degrees, 5.2 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 2.39 inches Statewide, 0.57 inch below normal for March. Favorable Spring weather helped retain soil moisture levels, and temperature fluctuations allowed for decent fieldwork conditions for some. Winter wheat condition remains stable from the previous month. Other activities for the month included tillage, fertilizer applications, grain hauling, equipment maintenance, and planting preparations. OKLAHOMA: For the month of March, rainfall totals averaged 2.01 inches throughout the State. According to the March 25 US Drought Monitor Report, 77 percent of the State was in the abnormally dry to exceptional drought category, up 43 points from the previous year. Additionally, 48 percent of the State was in the moderate drought to exceptional drought category, up 39 points from the previous year. Statewide temperatures averaged in the 50's, with the lowest recording of 18 degrees at Beaver on March 16 and the highest recording of 91 degrees at Magnum on March 18. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly adequate to short. OREGON: Rain was significant throughout the State. Clatsop and Tillamook Counties reported significant rain. Manure applications occurred under less than desirable conditions. There was no observed field planting. There was a lot of rain in Hood River, Sherman, Wasco, Wheeler, and Gilliam Counties. Pastures that burned last year started to green up fast. Wheat still looked small. Spraying was behind due to the rain. In Umatilla County, the outlook for most crops was reported as favorable. In Malheur County, field operations took place on a widespread basis. Onions, sugar beets, spring cereals, and potatoes were planted. Wheat was fertilized, and hayfields were harrowed or corrugated. Reservoirs were full or nearly full. Ranchers with spring calving herds reported average to below average mortality. Many began branding new calves. Some ranchers impacted by wildfires last summer looked for pastures to graze animals. PENNSYLVANIA: In the month of March, Pennsylvania experienced mild temperatures, including some warm days to bring crops out of dormancy. Temperatures ranged from 35 to 70 degrees across parts of the State. Rainfall was welcome, but still slightly below average. Many cover crops were green and showing signs of healthy growth. Small grains were reported to be in good condition, and planting of oats began. With the arrival of spring, some operators began to address herbicide needs. SOUTH CAROLINA: March temperatures were 1.0 to 5.1 degrees warmer than historic averages depending on location. Total rainfall during the month ranged from 1.1 inches in Horry County to 6.1 inches in Richland County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 99 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions, 60 percent had moderate drought conditions, and 3 percent had severe drought conditions by month's end, compared to 82 percent abnormally dry and 31 percent with moderate drought at the month's beginning. Wildfires were reported in the Upstate region due to dry conditions combined with high winds, with the extent of agricultural damage not yet known. Despite the dry conditions, spring planting activities began in earnest, with fertilizer, lime, and other applications being applied to many fields. Early planted corn started to emerge in the Midlands, while small grains began to head. There were concerns noted about cotton acreage levels due to low prices. Peaches and other fruits and vegetables were noted to be in good condition and progressing well. Pastures were reported to be improving due to warmer temperatures, although growth has been limited given the lack of rainfall. Reporters noted that some pastures that were heavily impacted by armyworms in 2024 have yet to recover. Cattle were observed to be in good condition and benefiting from pastures starting to green up. SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending March 30, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies rated 52% very short, 37% short, 11% adequate, 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 51% very short, 38% short, 11% adequate, 0% surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 17% very poor, 33% poor, 35% fair, 15% good, and 0% excellent. TENNESSEE: For the week ending March 30, days suitable for fieldwork 5.9. Topsoil moisture 4% very short, 22% short, 65% adequate, 9% surplus. Subsoil moisture is 6% very short, 20% short, 66% adequate, 8% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 6% poor, 30% fair, 45% good, 17% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 5% very poor, 19% poor, 37% fair, 35% good, 4% excellent. Cattle condition 1% very poor, 5% poor, 33% fair, 54% good, and 7% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies are 7% very short, 28% short, 58% adequate, 7% surplus. Tennessee experienced mostly average to slightly above average temperatures and average precipitation during the month of March. Pastures are quickly greening with rainfall, providing welcome relief to livestock producers still feeding hay. Producers have been busy at work in the last few weeks of the month, spraying for weeds, fertilizing, and even starting corn and bean planting. While decent precipitation levels have been received, some counties in the south and eastern portions of the State remain under D0 abnormally dry to D1 moderate drought status as we enter the spring planting season. TEXAS: During March, most of the State experienced dry and strong windy days. Confirmed tornadoes were sighted in the North East and South East Texas Districts at the beginning of the month. Precipitation ranged from trace amounts to upwards of 15 inches, with the Lower Valley and South Texas Districts receiving the most rain. Some small grains recovered from freeze damage. Small grains were at the headed stage. Producers planted corn, sorghum, and rice, with all three crops reaching the emerged or headed stage in some locations. Producers were harvesting leafy greens, cabbage, onions, and carrots, and planting cantaloupe, watermelon, and other spring vegetables. The Lower Valley District had an extreme flooding event at the end of the month which caused significant crop damage and delayed vegetable harvest. In some parts of the State, range fires spread due to strong winds. Supplemental feeding of livestock continued. Pasture and range conditions were rated poor to very poor. UTAH: This report is for the month of March 2025. Topsoil moisture 18% very short, 31% short, 50% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 4% very short, 36% short, 60% adequate. Barley planted 1%. Winter wheat condition 9% very poor, 11% poor, 34% fair, 44% good, 2% excellent. Cows calved 20%, 23% 2024. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 85%, 75% 2024. Cattle condition 1% poor, 6% fair, 88% good, 5% excellent. Farm flock ewes lambed 14%, 21% 2024. Range flock ewes lambed 5%, 8% 2024. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 69%, 84% 2024. Sheep and lambs condition 1% poor, 13% fair, 85% good, 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 7% short, 49% adequate, 43% surplus. Stock water supplies 1% very short, 11% short, 67% adequate, 21% surplus. March brought mild temperatures and above average precipitation to northern Utah, while most of the southern and eastern areas saw lower precipitation and mild temperatures. Topsoil moisture conditions increased from last month, with 51 percent rated adequate to surplus, compared with 71 percent adequate in February's report. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor for March 25, the State remains free from exceptional drought (D4) conditions. Extreme drought (D3) conditions were estimated at slightly above 4 percent, severe drought (D2) conditions were at 35 percent, moderate drought (D1) conditions were 38 percent, and abnormally dry (D0) conditions covered about 21 percent of Utah. Drought-free conditions calculated to about 2 percent. As of March 31, 2025, snowpack in Utah was 89 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. Beaver County reported some recent snow, but overall, still dry. Range conditions are fair to poor, but livestock are doing well. Box Elder County reported that planting continues, and some growers started fertilizer ahead of this week's storm events. Fruit trees continue to be pruned, and with last week's warmer weather, apricot trees started to bloom. Orchardists are concerned while the chance of frost remains for another month. Calving and lambing are progressing. Duchesne County reported unusually warm and dry weather which has producers worried about summer crops, but livestock is doing well with little supplement needed as they grazed on pasture most of the winter. Grand County reported as abnormally dry, and most cows have calved. Summit County reported a very mild winter, with some snow in the higher mountains, but the valleys are wet, and farmers started prepping fields. Calving is more than halfway done, and sheep shearing will begin soon. Washington County reported little rain or snow, and dry conditions persist with most stock ponds dry. VIRGINIA: For the week ending March 30, 2025, topsoil moisture is 1% very short, 49% short, 47% adequate and 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture is 7% very short, 32% short, 60% adequate and 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 10% poor, 22% fair, 64% good, 4% excellent. Barley condition 19% poor, 41% fair, 36% good, 4% excellent. Livestock condition 2% poor, 46% fair, 48% good, 4% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 3% very poor, 32% poor, 39% fair, 25% good, 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 5% very short, 36% short, 56% adequate, 3% surplus. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 18%. Virginia experienced mixed precipitation from normal to drastically below normal in March. Temperatures were seasonally normal to slightly above normal for the month. Dry conditions in some areas had producers on the outlook for fires during the month. However, weather has allowed pastures to start to green up and grow. Hay and roughage supplies are mostly adequate to short. Some livestock are still receiving supplemental hay and other feed. Primary activities for the month include producers doing pregnancy checks, applying lime and manure, and spreading fertilizer. WASHINGTON: The Statewide temperatures for March fluctuated between cooler temperatures with storms during the middle of the month and warmer temperatures toward the end of the month. Producers in central Washington saw little precipitation in the cropping areas of Yakima County. Orchard pruning occurred along with mowing and applying pest sprays. Apricots and peaches were in full bloom, while most cherries began blooming. Vegetable fields were tilled in preparation for planting. Hop yards were cleaned and tilled, and ground cover was seeded. Irrigation ditches were cleared of debris and weeds. The northeast region experienced cooler nights with some precipitation. Snow remained in the surrounding mountains. Snow mold was a concern in winter wheat. Calving continued in many areas. The southeast region received spring rains at a steady pace. This limited spring fieldwork, but the moisture was needed. WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending March 30, Topsoil moisture 6% very short, 49% short, and 45% adequate. Subsoil moisture 9% very short, 45% short, and 46% adequate. Hay and roughage supplies 18% very short, 53% short, 28% adequate, and 1% surplus. Feed grain supplies 7% very short, 45% short, and 48% adequate. Pasture condition 2% very poor, 7% poor, 47% fair, and 44% good. Winter wheat condition 10% poor, 88% fair, and 2% good. Cattle and calves condition 1% very poor, 6% poor, 23% fair, 68% good, and 2% excellent. Percent calved 58%. Sheep and lambs condition 1% very poor, 4% poor, 23% fair, and 72% good. Percent lambed 62%. Weather conditions for the month have been a mix of cold and warm temperatures with some rain and snow as cold fronts moved in and out throughout the month. There are abnormally dry to severe drought conditions in the State. Farming activities for the month included plowing fields and calving and lambing. WISCONSIN: March temperatures in Wisconsin averaged 35.1 degrees, 4.7 degrees above normal. The State averaged 4.04 inches of precipitation throughout the month, 2.07 inches above normal. Fieldwork activities included maple syrup tapping, cranberry bed maintenance, tilling fields, fertilizer application, and spreading manure where conditions allowed, most prominently in southern areas of the State. Storms late in the month slowed fieldwork progress. Calving is underway in some beef herds. Wheat and alfalfa were just beginning to green up in southern Wisconsin. WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of March 2025. Barley planted 15%. Cows calved 19%. Cattle death loss was rated 1% heavy, 30% average, 69% light. Ewes lambed 19%. Sheep shorn 19%. Sheep death loss was rated 21% average, 79% light. Topsoil moisture 37% very short, 31% short, 28% adequate, 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture 47% very short, 31% short, 21% adequate, 1 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition 21% very poor, 38% poor, 37% fair, 3% good, 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 3% very short, 21% short, 68% adequate, 8% surplus. Livestock condition 9% poor, 20% fair, 66% good, 5% excellent. Stock water supplies 2% very short, 20% short, 75% adequate, 3% surplus. Pasture and range condition 29% very poor, 20% poor, 33% fair, 16% good, 2% excellent. Wyoming received relief from the ongoing drought conditions during the month of March. Precipitation was scattered and total accumulations varied, ranging from a trace to 10 inches across the State during the month of March, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Temperatures across the State were warmer than normal, ranging from 1 degree below average to 5 degrees above average during the month, according to the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC) climate maps for the month of March. Drought conditions improved in Wyoming during March according to the United States Drought Monitor report published for March 25, 2025. The amount of land rated drought free was 14 percent, up 10 percent from the report published February 25, 2025. The amount of land rated abnormally dry covered 20 percent of Wyoming, unchanged from February 25. Moderate drought was found in 34 percent of Wyoming, compared to 26 percent on February 25. Severe drought improved to 19 percent, compared to 34 percent on February 25. Extreme conditions improved to 13 percent, compared to 16 percent on February 25. Reports from Goshen and Niobrara Counties indicated dry conditions. Niobrara County reports noted having received some moisture over the weekend. Reports from Weston County indicated receiving some moisture recently, causing pastureland to start turning green with observed growth present. 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. Patrick Boyle, Chief, Crops Branch................................................... (202) 720-2127 Chris Hawthorn, Head, Field Crops Section............................................ (202) 720-2127 Irwin Anolik - Crop Progress and Condition, Flaxseed, Mustardseed............... (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 - Hay, Peanuts.................................................. (202) 690-8533 James Johanson - Rye, Wheat..................................................... (202) 720-8068 Greg Lemmons - Corn, Proso Millet, Rice......................................... (202) 720-9526 Becky Sommer - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum................................. (202) 720-5944 Travis Thorson - Canola, Rapeseed, Safflower, Sunflower......................... (202) 720-7369 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. 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