Crop Progress - State Stories 

ISSN: 2470-9816

Released January 8, 2025, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service 
(NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of 
Agriculture (USDA).

ALABAMA: December temperatures were slightly warmer than usual. Total 
rainfall for the month ranged from 0.6 inch in Henry County to 14.1 inches in 
Fayette County. The rainfall received throughout the month did slightly 
alleviate drought conditions for the State. According to the U.S. Drought 
Monitor, 81.1 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's 
end, compared to 99.3 percent at the month's beginning. Many producers were 
able to make good progress with planting and harvesting due to the dry 
conditions. Fall seeded crops and winter grasses were in good condition 
throughout the month, especially with the received rain at the end of the 
month. For some, winter grazing annuals were slightly delayed due to fall 
drought conditions. Hay was in high demand and hard to come by due to the 
drought experienced over the summer and fall coupled with armyworm damage. 
Strawberry producers were working to protect their crops due to concern of 
upcoming cold temperatures. Overall, pastures were in fair condition. 
Producers who previously planted winter forages, reported greener pastures. 
Most cattle producers were supplementing livestock with hay. Cattle 
conditions were reported to be mostly fair and suffered some considering the 
decline in pasture growth.
ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
ARIZONA: This report for Arizona is for the month of December 2024. Responses 
were based on the entire month, with consideration for any weather-related 
impacts. By month's end, 99 percent of Arizona cotton had been harvested, 
unchanged from the previous year's levels, according to the Mountain Regional 
Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Twelve 
percent of the State's barley had been planted, and 10 percent of the crop 
had emerged. Similarly, 9 percent of Arizona's Durum wheat had been planted, 
of which 6 percent had emerged. Planting and emergence of the State's barley 
and Durum wheat crop were both significantly behind the previous year's 
levels. Alfalfa hay harvest continued to take place on about 45 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 improved slightly 
when compared to that of the previous report. Nineteen percent of the State's 
pasture and rangeland was rated very poor, 39 percent was rated poor, 
18 percent was rated fair, 22 percent was rated good, and 2 percent was rated 
excellent. Topsoil moisture levels remained mostly adequate, with 21 percent 
rated very short, 23 percent rated short, and 56 percent rated adequate. 
Subsoil moisture levels followed a similar trend. Throughout the month of 
December, measurable precipitation was lacking across much of the State; 
however, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
data, northern areas of the Defiance and Shivwits Plateau, as well as the 
Chuska Mountains, accumulated anywhere from trace amounts to 0.30 inch of 
total precipitation. The drought information statement for south-central 
Arizona, southwest Arizona, and southeast California remained in effect and 
was updated on December 21, 2024, in response to the driest monsoon and 
hottest summer-fall on record. The seasonal mean temperature and total 
precipitation outlooks for January, February, and March 2025 were issued by 
the National Weather Service on December 19, 2024. The seasonal mean 
temperature outlook continues to show that temperatures will likely be above 
normal for the entirety of the State, with the eastern two-thirds of Arizona 
having a higher probability of experiencing warmer temperatures than the 
remaining third of the State. Similarly, the seasonal total precipitation 
outlook continues to show that precipitation will likely be below normal for 
the entirety of the State, with southeastern regions having a higher 
probability of experiencing below average precipitation than remaining areas 
of the State. Arizona's seasonal drought outlook was updated on December 31, 
2024. The outlook now shows that conditions are expected to persist 
throughout all areas of the State that were affected by moderate drought (D1) 
or higher on December 24, 2024. Drought is now expected to develop across all 
remaining areas of the State. Streamflow conditions throughout Arizona 
deteriorated significantly when compared to that of the previous report. As 
of December 31, 2024, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed a deterioration in 
conditions when compared to that of the previous report. Abnormally dry 
conditions (D0) bounded 20 percent of the State, moderate drought (D1) 
enveloped 33 percent, severe drought (D2) encompassed 30 percent, and extreme 
drought (D3) spanned 14 percent of the State's total land area. Arizona once 
again remained free of exceptional (D4) drought. Throughout the month of 
December, temperatures were at or above normal according to the High Plains 
Regional Climate Center (HPRCC). Daytime highs throughout Arizona ranged from 
3 to 14 degrees above normal and ranged from the mid-30's in northern 
Apache County to the high 70's across south-central regions of the State. 
Overnight lows ranged from 8 degrees below to 8 degrees above normal and 
ranged from 13 to 35 degrees across northern and eastern counties, whereas 
counties within the Sonoran Desert experienced lows of 40 to 55 degrees.
ARKANSAS: For the week ending January 5, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies were 
1% very short, 4% short, 53% adequate, and 42% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies were 1% very short, 4% short, 73% adequate, and 22% surplus. There 
were 17 days suitable for fieldwork during the month of December. Row crop 
farmers were planning seed, fertilizer, and chemical inputs for the 2025 
season. Ranchers were managing herds and feeding as needed. Recent rains 
saturated the ground with some areas flooding. Wheat and winter annual 
pastures were growing well with warm December temperatures.
CALIFORNIA: For the week ending January 5, 2025 - Days suitable for fieldwork 
6.4. Topsoil moisture 5% short, 90% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture 5% short, 90% adequate, and 5% surplus. Pasture and range condition 
40% fair, 50% good, and 10% excellent. Winter wheat condition 5% fair, 80% 
good, and 15% excellent. As of December 18, Snowpack content ranged from 
5.2 to 8.5 inches in the Northern, Southern and Central Sierras, well above 
average for this time of year. Weather was cold and wet. Winter wheat crop, 
oats, and alfalfa were growing well. Winter forage was planted. Alfalfa was 
bagged for haylage. Growers sprayed their fields with pre-emergents to combat 
the cold wet weather. Fields were prepped and planted for winter vegetables. 
Broccoli was treated for pests. Mummy removal continued on harvested almond 
orchards. Crews began pruning as the nut harvest season ended. Persimmon 
harvest was complete. Stone fruit orchards were being pruned while in 
dormancy. Pomegranate trees began entering dormancy. Table grape harvest was 
complete. Grape vineyards were pruned and vines were tied. Navel orange, 
grapefruit, pummelo, mandarin, and lemon harvests continued. Blood orange and 
Melo gold grapefruit harvests began. Olive trees were pruned, skirted, and 
topped. Strawberry fields were prepared for the next crop. Blackberry and 
blueberry bushes were sold for planting.
COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the entire month of December 2024. 
Topsoil moisture 18% very short, 16% short, 65% adequate, 1% excellent. 
Subsoil moisture 16% very short, 24% short, 59% adequate, 1% excellent. 
Winter wheat condition 5% very poor, 7% poor, 18% fair, 61% good, 9% 
excellent. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 2% poor, 28% fair, 57% good, 12% 
excellent. Pasture and range condition 5% very poor, 22% poor, 33% fair, 39% 
good, 1% excellent. Above average temperatures and below average 
precipitation were prevalent across the State during the month of December. 
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor report published on January 1, almost 
25 percent of the State was abnormally dry or in a state of drought. Just 
over 4 percent of the State was in severe to exceptional drought, an 
improvement from last December, when almost 9 percent of the State was under 
severe to exceptional drought conditions. Areas of northern Larimer and Weld 
Counties were experiencing extreme drought conditions, encompassing less than 
1 percent of the State. Temperatures across the State for the month of 
December trended above average. Several counties realized temperatures more 
than six degrees above normal, with isolated areas of the State realizing 
temperatures more than 10 degrees above normal. The high country of Gunnison 
and Saguache Counties, as well as an isolated area in Las Animas County, 
experienced temperatures below normal. Reports from Grand and Jackson 
Counties stated it has been a mild winter, and snow is needed to replenish 
ground moisture and irrigation supply. Wolf depredations continued as 
producers experience devastating losses. Northeastern counties remained dry, 
receiving minimal moisture in the month of December. Many southwestern 
counties received at least half an inch of moisture during the month of 
December, with areas of the high country receiving upwards of three inches of 
moisture. A Dolores County reporter stated hay demand is low due to producers 
being able to continually graze pastures with a lack of snow cover. The 
San Luis Valley has received limited moisture this winter, with reporters 
noting that carry over moisture from November has helped. Livestock were in 
good condition and pastures have held condition well for December, according 
to reporters. Statewide, winter wheat condition improved slightly, with 
70 percent of the crop rated good to excellent, compared with 68 percent good 
to excellent from the previous report and 61 percent good to excellent last 
year. As of January 6, 2025, snowpack in Colorado was 98 percent measured as 
percent of median snowfall.
DELAWARE: December was characterized by both above and below normal 
temperatures with rains. Overall, precipitation was behind what is typical 
for the State. The appearance of small grains looked to be improving and in 
healthy condition. Snow geese have migrated to the State and have been 
sighted in corn fields. Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) has been detected and 
confirmed in Kent County by the Delaware Department of Agriculture. The 
affected poultry facilities have been depopulated and sanitized, to prevent 
the spread of the disease.
FLORIDA: December temperatures were on par with historical averages, with 
some parts of the State experiencing freezes near the beginning of the month. 
Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.2 inch of rain in Sarasota County 
to 8.6 inches in Broward County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 
89.9 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, 
compared to 57.3 percent at the month's beginning. Most of the State received 
very little rainfall near the beginning of last month, with some parts in the 
Peninsula experiencing heavier rainfall at the end of the month. However, 
this did not improve overall drought conditions in the State during December. 
Pasture conditions were mostly fair to good last month. At the beginning of 
the month, many producers reported the dry, cold weather caused pastures to 
steadily decline. As a result, many supplemented cattle with feed. Near the 
end of the month, producers reported pasture conditions improved with 
rainfall received. Cattle remained in mostly good to fair condition 
throughout the month. Sugarcane planting and harvest progressed well 
throughout December, with no reported delays in field operations. Grove 
operations included fertilizing, minimal spraying, mowing after harvest, 
applying minimal herbicides and continued pushing up of abandoned groves and 
dead trees. Crops that were planted and harvested included strawberries, 
eggplant, squash, peppers, tomato, snap beans, boniato, sweet corn, ethnic 
vegetables and tropical fruits.
GEORGIA: December temperatures were 1.9 degrees colder to 2.8 degrees warmer 
than historical averages depending on location. Total rainfall for the month 
ranged from 0.9 inch in Glynn County to 10.6 inches in Lumpkin County. 
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 32 percent of the State had abnormally 
dry conditions and 9 percent had moderate drought conditions by month's end, 
compared to 65 percent abnormally dry and 12 percent with moderate drought 
conditions at the month's beginning. Cotton and peanut harvest wrapped up in 
December with some late planted fields reported to have had some frost 
damage. Cool temperatures allowed fruits and berries to accumulate necessary 
chill hours, but producers remained concerned of freeze damage if bud break 
occurs early. Pecan growers continued to clean up their orchards from 
Hurricane Helene damage. Winter forage did not develop as well as expected 
and producers were supplementing with hay more than previous years. Cattle 
prices have been strong, so some producers are reducing herd sizes. General 
clean up from Tropical Storm Debbie and Hurricane Helene continued as 
producers could shift focus away from finishing out the growing season.
HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
IDAHO: The average temperatures for January were above normal for the entire 
State. Accumulated precipitation was below normal for most of the State. By 
the end of December, Idaho County reported that over half of the ground in 
the county was partially covered with snow. Jerome and Twin Falls Counties 
reported an open winter with very little snow and above average temperatures. 
The last week of December saw some snow and significant rain. Conditions were 
good for livestock as conditions were dry and not cold enough to challenge 
them. Winter wheat looked good. With no snow cover and mild temperatures, the 
winter wheat crop fared well so far. Due to recent moisture, all fieldwork 
activities stopped. Farmers were working fields well into early December. The 
mountains received some snowpack. Blaine County reported snowfall in the 
area, with near normal expected amounts. Bonneville and Madison Counties 
reported that hay stocks looked sufficient. Recent wet snowstorms helped the 
water outlook, but the Upper Snake River snow levels were still at or below 
average. There was good snow coverage on the valley floors. Lemhi County 
reported getting some moisture at the end of December, with some producers 
starting to calve. Bannock and Bingham Counties reported snow by the end of 
the month as well. Lambing and calving progressed as usual. Oneida County 
reported average conditions for the month of December with adequate moisture 
as snowpack.
ILLINOIS: For the week ending January 5, 2025. Topsoil moisture 1% very 
short, 14% short, 67% adequate, and 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very 
short, 31% short, 56% adequate, and 12% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% 
very poor, 4% poor, 27% fair, 60% good, and 9% excellent. For the month of 
December, temperatures averaged 34.0 degrees, 4.2 degrees above normal. 
Precipitation averaged 2.81 inches, 0.12 inch above average.
INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of December was 6% very short, 14% 
short, 62% adequate, 18% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 7% very 
short, 23% short, 60% adequate, 10% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 
2% very poor, 4% poor, 26% fair, 58% good, 10% excellent. Statewide 
temperatures averaged 34.7 degrees, 3.6 degrees above normal for the month of 
December. Statewide average precipitation was 4.17 inches, 1.11 inches above 
normal. There was sufficient precipitation to increase topsoil and subsoil 
moisture levels, primarily in the southern portion of the State. Despite the 
lack of snow cover for most of the month, winter wheat was reported to be in 
good condition. Livestock began to be fed hay early, and there was sufficient 
supply reported. Limited illness was reported as livestock struggled with 
large temperature swings. Muddy conditions caused by warm temperatures and 
rainfall resulted in some damage to pastures and paddocks. Other activities 
included grain hauling, equipment maintenance, and attending Extension 
events.
IOWA: December saw above average temperatures across the State. Precipitation 
was near normal for the State as a whole, but the western one-third of the 
State had below normal precipitation. Several areas received measurable 
rainfall the last week of the month. Many reporters described December as 
mild, which allowed fertilizer and manure applications to continue. Winter 
wheat and cover crop planting were reported. Livestock conditions throughout 
the State were generally described as good, with no reports of abnormal death 
loss. In many areas cattle were still grazing on corn stalks and bean stubble 
at the end of the month. Grain movement was not hindered by bad weather with 
many reports of operators hauling grain. Soil moisture levels continue to be 
the primary concern as farmers look forward to the 2025 crop year.
KANSAS: For the week ending January 5, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies rated 
9% very short, 27% short, 60% adequate, 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies 
rated 12% very short, 30% short, 56% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat 
condition rated 5% very poor, 11% poor, 37% fair, 40% good, 7% excellent.
KENTUCKY: For the month of December, Kentucky saw above normal temperatures 
and precipitation. After drought conditions throughout the fall, the State 
has seen two straight months of above normal rainfall. Only a small area in 
the southeastern portion of the State remains abnormally dry. Mild 
temperatures prevailed throughout the month. This past year will go down as 
one of the warmest for the State in recorded history. Temperatures for the 
period averaged 40 degrees across the State, 3 degrees above normal. 
Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 5.17 inches Statewide, which 
was 0.88 inch above normal and 121% of normal. Drought stunted fall pasture 
growth causing many farmers to begin feeding hay early. For the month, hay 
supplies 1% very short, 16% short, 79% adequate, 4% surplus. Livestock 
condition 1% poor, 22% fair, 65% good, 12% excellent. Condition of winter 
wheat 1% very poor, 1% poor, 18% fair, 73% good, 7% excellent. Tobacco 
stripping 82% complete.
LOUISIANA: For the week ending January 5, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies 
were 0% very short, 4% short, 81% adequate, and 15% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies were 0% very short, 5% short, 82% adequate, and 13% surplus. There 
were 20 days suitable for fieldwork during the month of December. Overall, 
the State experienced mild weather with above average temperatures and 
several rain systems. As a result of favorable weather, ryegrass, pastures, 
and cattle generally performed well. Although fields were muddy at times, 
operators have been harvesting sugarcane and crawfish, with promising 
results.
MARYLAND: Temperatures in December were below average to average. 
Precipitation was typical for the State and included rain and snow. Soil 
moisture level and drought concerns have been decreased. The state of cover 
crops remained patchy due to the prior drought-like conditions. Winter annual 
weed in fields with cover crops is prevalent due to dry conditions in 2024. 
Waterfowls have been causing localized concerns for farmers.
MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 3% very short, 17% short, 75% adequate, 5% 
surplus. Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 25% short, 67% adequate, 3% surplus. 
Winter wheat condition rated 5% poor, 19% fair, 58% good, 18% excellent. 
Precipitation for the month of December averaged 2.77 inches throughout the 
State, 0.52 inch above normal. Temperatures for the month of December 
averaged 28.4 degrees, 3.5 degrees above normal. December was relatively warm 
and dry across the State until after Christmas. Winter wheat showed good 
color heading into winter, but drier conditions had slowed growth. A few 
producers were waiting for ground to freeze to finish up corn and soybean 
harvest. Other activities for the month included spreading manure, purchasing 
seed, ordering supplies, preparing year-end tax paperwork, and tending 
livestock.
MINNESOTA: December 2024 temperatures were 5.7 degrees above average while 
precipitation, at 0.88 inch, was close to normal. Little to no snow cover 
caused some concern for crops, but conditions were generally good for 
livestock. Very little field work took place during the month.
MISSISSIPPI: For the week ending January 5, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies 
were 1% very short, 10% short, 68% adequate, and 21% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture supplies were 2% very short, 10% short, 72% adequate, and 16% 
surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork during the month of December were 
16 days. Conditions for most of December brought mild and wet conditions. 
Wheat crops were looking healthy due to the milder days and wet conditions. 
With the moisture moving in, the winter forages were doing good. Overall, all 
crops were in great condition with the steady rainfalls and climate.
MISSOURI: For the week ending January 5, 2025. Topsoil moisture 1% very 
short, 5% short, 78% adequate, and 16% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very 
short, 16% short, 77% adequate, and 5% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% 
very poor, 1% poor, 30% fair, 61% good, and 8% excellent. For the month of 
December, temperatures averaged 37.4 degrees, 4.4 degrees above normal. 
Precipitation averaged 2.95 inches, 0.18 inch above average.
MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the entire month of December 2024. 
Topsoil moisture 27% very short, 34% short, 38% adequate, 1% Surplus. Subsoil 
moisture 31% very short, 37% short, 32% adequate. Winter wheat condition 1% 
very poor, 5% poor, 52% fair, 39% good, 3% excellent. Winter wheat wind 
damage 4% severe, 10% moderate, 21% light, 65% none. Winter wheat freeze 
damage 2% severe, 9% moderate, 16% light, 73% none. Snow cover 11% very poor, 
53% poor, 27% fair, 5% good, 4% excellent. Pasture and range condition 26% 
very poor, 57% poor, 16% fair, 1% good. Grazing accessibility 62% open, 20% 
difficult, 18% closed. Cattle receiving supplemental feed 87%. Sheep 
receiving supplemental feed 87%. The month of December brought above average 
temperatures and mostly below normal precipitation to Montana. Data from the 
High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC) indicate that temperatures ran 
about 6-10 degrees above average across most of the State. Moisture received 
was about 0.75 inch below average to normal for the majority of Montana. In 
some parts of central and eastern Montana, moisture levels were as much as 
0.75 inch or more above normal. Drought conditions according to the 
U.S. Drought Monitor report released on December 31, 2024, showed there was 
6 percent of land rated drought free. Abnormal dryness was found in 
40 percent of Montana, moderate drought stood at 27 percent, 13 percent was 
rated severe drought and 14 percent was at extreme drought. Those extreme 
drought conditions were in the eastern part of Montana and in the west 
central part of the State. Comments from central Montana showed 6-9 inches of 
snow was received. However, in the northern part of the State producers have 
concerns with the lack of moisture and with the snowpack being below normal.
NEBRASKA: For the week ending January 5, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies 
rated 17% very short, 41% short, 41% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture supplies rated 27% very short, 37% short, 35% adequate, and 1% 
surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 6% very poor, 20% poor, 47% fair, 26% 
good, and 1% excellent.
NEVADA: For the week ending January 5, 2025 - Days suitable for fieldwork 
7.0. Topsoil moisture 5% very short, 65% short, 25% adequate, and 5% surplus. 
Subsoil moisture 5% very short, 60% short, 30% adequate, and 5% surplus. 
Pasture and range condition 35% poor, 40% fair, 20% good, and 5% excellent. 
There was little to no precipitation during the month. Temperatures remained 
normal to slightly above normal. Storms brought drying winds to the State.
NEW ENGLAND: New England states experienced very erratic weather with cold 
days, snow, rain, as well as periods of warmth. Maine had a few snowstorms in 
the beginning of the month which resulting in 15 inches of snow. Several 
rainstorms followed with significant warmth resulting in most of the snow 
melting. There has been debris on the fields from the multiple windstorms and 
severe rain. Farmers will have a lot of field work to cleanup. Farmers 
reported multiple losses of barns, animals, and equipment due to high winds. 
Most counties in Connecticut had a couple of cold days, which were 
immediately followed by temperatures in the 60s. Plants started swelling 
buds, then it got back to freezing temperature. Winter in Vermont has seen a 
mix of snow followed by rain with temperatures dipping below zero at night. 
One reporter from Massachusetts reported that no sub-zero temperatures had 
been recorded yet, and the dry fall weather have not put an undue stress on 
fruit trees. Farmers are planning for 2025, and how to deal with high input 
costs in crop production and changing weather patterns. Most producers spent 
time doing general farm maintenance as well as administrative activities such 
as income tax planning. Orchardists prepared for pruning apple trees and 
Christmas tree growers finished up their season. Fresh greens were sold at 
winter farmers markets. Farm activities varied in December and included 
combining corn and spreading manure (CT), shipping potato crops (ME), 
planning for the 2025 season (NH) harvesting some cold crops and seeding 
winter rye (RI), and some maple syrup production (VT).
NEW JERSEY: In December, New Jersey was still recovering from drought 
conditions that have persisted since August. December saw below average 
precipitation, and much of the State remained in moderate to severe drought 
conditions. Grain and hay yields were very low, and vegetables were variable 
depending on irrigation availability. Some yields improved from lack of 
disease pressure in dry conditions. Late frost pushed some vegetable harvests 
later than usual.
NEW MEXICO: This report is for the month of December 2024. Topsoil moisture 
49% very short, 41% short, 10% adequate. Subsoil moisture 47% very short, 42% 
short, 10% adequate, 1% surplus. Red chile harvested 96%. Corn harvested for 
grain 95%. Cotton harvested 95%. Onions emerged 95%. Pecans harvested 75%. 
Winter wheat condition 21% poor, 42% fair, 22% good, 15% excellent. Cattle 
receiving supplemental feed 70%. Cattle condition 14% poor, 30% fair, 34% 
good, 22% excellent. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 90%. Sheep and lambs 
condition 16% poor, 52% fair, 31% good, 1% excellent. Pasture and range 
condition 15% very poor, 34% poor, 22% fair, 20% good, 9% excellent. Hay and 
roughage supplies 4% very short, 28% short, 66% adequate, 2% surplus. Stock 
water supplies 34% very short, 25% short, 40% adequate, 1% surplus. December 
brought mostly dry conditions and above average temperatures to much of 
New Mexico. Fire danger was high for most areas. Producers had ample time to 
finish harvesting any remaining row crops. Harvest was active across the 
State's pecan orchards. Cattle were grazing corn stalks and wheat fields. In 
Union County, many wheat fields showed grazing pressure due to limited 
moisture supplies. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration (NOAA) data, only isolated pockets of the State accumulated 
moisture during the month, with maximum totals limited to less than 2.0 
inches. Data from the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC) indicated 
that average temperatures ranged from about 2 degrees to 8 degrees above 
normal. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor for December 31, the State 
remains free from exceptional drought (D4) conditions. Extreme drought (D3) 
conditions were estimated at roughly 5 percent, severe drought (D2) 
conditions were at 11 percent, moderate drought (D1) conditions were 
13 percent, and abnormally dry (D0) conditions covered about 27 percent of 
New Mexico. Drought-free conditions calculated to about 44 percent.
NEW YORK: This past month of December experienced large temperature swings in 
many areas causing concern among honeybee and fruit operations. Some other 
locations had a cold wet start. The mid-Hudson River Valley experienced some 
abnormally dry, severe drought conditions which had some relief from rain and 
snow later in the month. Vineyard crews on Long Island began dormant pruning 
which will continue through much of the winter. Winter wheat and cover crops 
were in generally good condition.
NORTH CAROLINA: For the week ending January 5, 2025 - Subsoil moisture 3% 
very short, 18% short, 77% adequate and 2% surplus. Topsoil moisture 3% very 
short, 18% short, 75% adequate and 4% surplus. Barley condition 18% poor, 22% 
fair, 42% good and 18% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 8% 
short, 83% adequate and 8% surplus. Oats condition 41% fair, 59% good. 
Pasture and range condition 18% poor, 46% fair, 33% good and 3% excellent. 
Winter wheat condition 1% very poor, 2% poor, 24% fair, 69% good and 4% 
excellent. Throughout December, recovery from Helene has progressed and 
activities are slowly resuming. Some parts of the State are still relatively 
dry, but heavier soils have good moisture. Hay is adequate to slightly below 
average.
NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending January 5, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies 
rated 13% very short, 40% short, 44% adequate, 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies rated 14% very short, 37% short, 46% adequate, 3% surplus. Winter 
wheat condition rated 4% very poor, 9% poor, 47% fair, 38% good, 2% 
excellent. Sunflowers harvested 99%. Cattle and calf conditions, 0% very 
poor, 2% poor, 25% fair, 69% good, 4% excellent. Sheep and lamb conditions, 
1% very poor, 2% poor, 29% fair, 62% good, 6% excellent. Hay and roughage 
supplies, 0% very short, 13% short, 80% adequate, 7% surplus. Stock water 
supplies, 12% very short, 26% short, 60% adequate, 2% surplus.
OHIO: Topsoil moisture for the month was 6% short, 80% adequate, 14% surplus. 
Subsoil moisture for the month was 24% short, 65% adequate, 11% surplus. 
Winter wheat condition was rated 2% very poor, 3% poor, 38% fair, 48% good, 
9% excellent. The statewide average temperature was 34.6 degrees, 2.9 degrees 
above normal. Precipitation averaged 3.64 inches statewide, 0.73 inch above 
normal for December. Mild temperatures and much needed precipitation helped 
replenish soil moisture levels throughout much of the State. Winter wheat 
condition ratings were stable. Procurement of hay continued to be a challenge 
for some. Other activities for the month included equipment maintenance, 
grain hauling, and tax season preparations.
OKLAHOMA: For the month of December, rainfall totals averaged 1.55 inches 
throughout the State, with the Southeast district recording the highest 
precipitation at 6.12 inches and the Panhandle district recording the lowest 
precipitation at 0.03 inch. According to the December 31 US Drought Monitor 
Report, 30 percent of the State was in the abnormally dry to exceptional 
drought category, down 15 points from the previous year. Additionally, 
6 percent of the State was in the moderate drought to exceptional drought 
category, down 16 points from the previous year. Statewide temperatures 
averaged in the low 40's to upper 40's, with the lowest recording of 
14 degrees at Kenton on Friday, December 13, and the highest recording of 
76 degrees at Waurika on Monday, December 30. Topsoil and subsoil moisture 
conditions were rated adequate to short.
OREGON: Temperatures ranged from average to above average across most of the 
State. Clackamas, Multnomah, Washington, and Columbia Counties experienced 
extremely wet conditions, leading to erosion on open fields, steep banks, and 
overgrazed pastures. There were brief dry periods to harvest bare root trees. 
Agronomic crops, including winter grain and grass seed, generally looked 
good. Despite the excess moisture, the above average temperatures helped 
crops. Weed populations got an early start. Livestock were kept away from 
grazing the saturated pastures to avoid soil damage. Benton and Lincoln 
Counties experienced average but significant precipitation, which led to 
temporary flooding in some areas. Snow and ice storms have yet to manifest so 
far this winter season. Clatsop and Tillamook Counties experienced an 
onslaught of rainfall with heavy winds, which led to numerous fallen trees. 
Morrow, Sherman, and Wasco Counties also fell under a curtain of 
significantly wet conditions. The moisture, coupled with average daytime 
temperatures and above freezing nighttime temperatures, positively impacted 
crops. Fall seeded crops were behind in growth due to the dry fall. 
Umatilla County also welcomed moisture after a dryer than average summer and 
fall. Snowpack was low at both low and high elevations throughout the County. 
Winter wheat stands were mostly fair or good. Lake County also brought in 
heavy precipitation, receiving contributions from both rain and snow. Creeks 
and reservoirs began to fill.
PENNSYLVANIA: For the month of December, the State experienced mild winter 
weather. There was minimal snowfall, with some areas receiving a few inches 
in the first half of December. The latter half of December was fairly rainy. 
The late season rain benefitted fall seeded cover crops and forages.
SOUTH CAROLINA: December temperatures were 2.4 degrees colder to 2.2 degrees 
warmer than historic averages depending on location. Total rainfall during 
the month ranged from 0.2 inch in Horry County to 12.2 inches in 
Oconee County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 58 percent of the State 
had abnormally dry conditions and 17 percent had moderate drought conditions 
by month's end, compared to 72 percent abnormally dry and 32 percent with 
moderate drought at the month's beginning. Spring planted crops wrapped up 
harvesting and fall seeded crops were planted. Winter wheat started to 
emerge. Final hay cuttings were impacted by armyworm infestations and grazing 
grasses might need replanting. Drier than average conditions and cold 
temperatures increased hay feeding for livestock to supplement pasture.
SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending January 5, 2025, topsoil moisture supplies 
rated 34% very short, 45% short, 21% adequate, 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies rated 33% very short, 46% short, 21% adequate, 0% surplus. Winter 
wheat condition rated 12% very poor, 18% poor, 48% fair, 22% good, and 0% 
excellent.
TENNESSEE: For the week ending January 5, Days suitable 3.4. Topsoil moisture 
2% very short, 14% short, 58% adequate, 26% surplus. Subsoil moisture is 6% 
very short, 14% short, 69% adequate, 11% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% 
very poor, 7% poor, 28% fair, 50% good, 14% excellent. Pasture and Range 
condition 7% very poor, 24% poor, 41% fair, 24% good, 4% excellent. Cattle 
condition 1% very poor, 5% poor, 33% fair, 51% good, and 10% excellent. Hay 
and roughage supplies are 5% very short, 25% short, 60% adequate, 10% 
surplus. Tennessee experienced slightly above average temperatures in 
December with variable precipitation. To close out the year, several rain 
showers and high winds were received. The eastern region of the State is a 
bit dry with counties in D0 abnormally dry to D3 extreme drought status as of 
December 31. Livestock producers continue feeding hay, with some beginning to 
run low on stocks. Reports indicate that winter wheat crops are looking good.
TEXAS: For the month of December, precipitation ranged from trace amounts to 
upwards of 15 inches, with North East Texas and South East Texas districts 
receiving the most rain. Cotton harvest neared completion across the State. 
Pecan harvest continued in the Cross Timbers and the Edwards Plateau 
districts. Onions, carrots, cabbage, citrus, strawberries, and leafy green 
vegetables were being harvested in the Lower Valley and South Texas. Small 
grains were progressing well despite needing additional rain. Range and 
Pasture conditions were rated 71 percent, poor to fair. Supplemental feeding 
of livestock continued across the State.
UTAH: This report for Utah is for the entire month of December 2024. Topsoil 
moisture 8% very short, 10% short, 82% adequate. Subsoil moisture 7% very 
short, 28% short, 63% adequate, 2% surplus. Pasture and range condition 1% 
very poor, 3% poor, 23% fair, 57% good, 16% excellent. Winter wheat condition 
29% fair, 71% good. Hay and roughage supplies 8% short, 51% adequate, 41% 
surplus. Stock water supplies 5% very short, 12% short, 46% adequate, 37% 
surplus. Cattle and calves condition 1% very poor, 2% poor, 8% fair, 84% 
good, 5% excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 1% very poor, 2% poor, 4% fair, 
87% good, 6% excellent. Livestock receiving supplemental feed for cattle 56%. 
Livestock receiving supplemental feed for sheep 62%. Cows calved 1%. Ewes 
lambed-farm flock 2%. Ewes lambed-range flock 1%. As of January 6, 2025, 
snowpack in Utah was 99 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. 
Cache County reports noted more snow was received in the mountains during 
December compared to lower elevations. Duchesne, Grand, and Washington 
Counties noted conditions were mild, warm, and abnormally dry during December 
with limited winter moisture received. In Grand County, concerns regarding 
alfalfa aphids were reported. Duchesne County reports noted cattle and sheep 
remained on pasture with little supplemental feed needed.
VIRGINIA: For week ending January 5, 2025, Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 
20% short, 76% adequate, 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 30% 
short, 67% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% very poor, 4% 
poor, 49% fair, 43% good, 2% excellent. Barley condition 1% very poor, 4% 
poor, 53% fair, 39% good, and 3% very good. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 
5% poor, 44% fair, 42% good, 8% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 15% 
very poor, 20% poor, 32% fair, 29% good, and 4% excellent. Hay and roughage 
supplies 2% very short, 26% short, 67% adequate, 5% surplus. Percent of feed 
obtained from pastures 20%. Some areas of Virginia continued to recover from 
Hurricane Helene. During the month of December, rainfall averaged below 
normal. Shifts in temperatures caused sickness in livestock. Farmers are 
watching for runny noses and coughing. Stockpiled grass has nearly been 
exhausted and most of pastures have been grazed. Hay is expected to be fed 
earlier than normal due to lasting impacts of drought. Primary activities for 
the month include finishing up soybean and cotton harvest, purchasing hay, 
cleaning up and rebuilding after Hurricane Helene, and watching for livestock 
sickness.
WASHINGTON: The Statewide temperatures for December were above normal to 
slightly below normal throughout the State. Producers reported weather being 
unseasonably warm in the northwest part of the State. Vegetable growers hoped 
for colder temperatures to support optimal growing conditions. In the central 
part of the State, there was not much field activity in the crop producing 
areas. The weather was moderate, and snowfall provided some moisture in the 
area. The northeastern region had mixed days of snow and rain. Field erosion 
was becoming a concern due to removing soil and fall seeded plants. The east 
central district had a high volume of rain without a cold snap. Winter wheat 
was in good condition. The southeastern region also had a high volume of rain 
without temperatures dropping drastically. Winter wheat was looking good.
WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending January 5, Topsoil moisture 4% very short, 
37% short, 56% adequate, and 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture 37% very short, 48% 
short, and 15% adequate. Hay and roughage supplies 13% very short, 47% short, 
and 40% adequate. Feed grain supplies 4% very short, 39% short, and 57% 
adequate. Winter wheat condition 16% poor and 84% fair. Cattle and calves 
condition 2% poor, 29% fair, 67% good, and 2% excellent. Sheep and lambs 
condition 2% poor, 25% fair, 70% good, and 3% excellent. Weather conditions 
for the month have been a mix of cold and warm temperatures mixed with rain 
and snow. Farming activities for the month included preparing for cold 
weather, feeding hay to livestock, and repairing fences. There are abnormally 
dry to moderate drought conditions in the State.
WISCONSIN: December temperatures in Wisconsin averaged 23.9 degrees, 
4.9 degrees above normal. The State averaged 1.28 inches of precipitation 
throughout the month, 0.05 inch below normal. Field activities included 
manure and fertilizer application. There were concerns about little to no 
snow cover to protect the fall planted crops.
WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of December 2024. 
Topsoil moisture 41% very short, 29% short, 29% adequate, 1 percent surplus. 
Subsoil moisture 45% very short, 36% short, 18% adequate, 1 percent surplus. 
Winter wheat condition 12% very poor, 24% poor, 59% fair, 4% good, 1 percent 
excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 9% short, 82% adequate, 9% surplus. 
Livestock condition 1% poor, 22% fair, 68% good, 9% excellent. Stock water 
supplies 8% short, 86% adequate, 6% surplus. Pasture and range condition 7% 
very poor, 21% poor, 45% fair, 21% good, 6% surplus. Wyoming received little 
relief from the ongoing drought conditions during the month of December. 
Precipitation was scattered and total accumulations varied widely across the 
State, ranging from a trace to 2 inches across most of the State during the 
month. A couple areas received upwards to 6 inches, while western 
Teton County received as much as 10 inches during the month, according to the 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Some areas received 
no measurable rainfall. Temperatures ran above normal across the State, 
ranging from 0 to 12 degrees above average during the month, according to the 
High Plains Regional Climate Center (PPRCC) climate maps for the month of 
December. There was little change in drought conditions during December 
according to the United States Drought Monitor report published for 
December 31, 2024. The amount of land rated drought free was 0 percent, 
unchanged from the report published November 24, 2024. The amount of land 
rated abnormally dry covered 7 percent of Wyoming compared to 2 percent 
November 24. Moderate drought was found in 21 percent of Wyoming, compared to 
36 percent on November 24. Severe drought worsened to 46 percent, compared to 
40 percent on November 24. Extreme conditions remained constant at 
26 percent. Reports from Goshen County indicated that the dry weather during 
the month has caused many cattle producers to liquidate their herds. 
Lincoln County reporters noted good winter conditions thus far, with mountain 
snowpack at median to slightly above average levels, while temperatures have 
been moderate and no extremely freezing nights.

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
     
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