Crop Progress - State Stories 

ISSN: 2470-9816

Released January 3, 2024, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service 
(NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of 
Agriculture (USDA).

ALABAMA: December temperatures were generally on par with historical 
averages. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.9 inch in Chilton County 
to 7.3 inches in Mobile County. The limited rainfall did alleviate drought 
conditions in the southern part of the State but most of the State remained 
in a drought. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 89.9 percent of the 
State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 99.1 percent 
at the month's beginning. Some fall seeded crops were not planted because of 
the lack of rainfall and early planted crops were reported to have poor stand 
because of the lack of soil moisture. Fall forages were also slow to grow and 
the lack of growth caused producers to feed more hay than usual. Hay 
shortages were reported in parts of the State with some producers reporting 
they might run out of hay by the end of January. Producers were optimistic 
about completing off-season fieldwork before spring planting begins. Pastures 
were reported to be in fair to poor condition and needed rainfall to bolster 
growth. Cattle conditions were reported to be mostly fair as the lack of 
quality winter forage took its toll.
ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
ARIZONA: This report for Arizona is for the month of December 2023. Responses 
were based on the entire month, with consideration for any weather-related 
impacts that are forecast between now and month's end. By month's end, 
Arizona cotton harvest had progressed to 99 percent complete, up one 
percentage point from the previous year's levels. Twenty-five percent of the 
State's barley has been planted, and 25 percent of the crop has emerged. 
Similarly, 20 percent of Arizona's Durum wheat has been planted; 18 percent 
of the crop has emerged. Arizona's alfalfa crop was rated in mostly good to 
excellent condition, with only 22 percent of the crop rated fair to poor. As 
native forages have fully matured or continue to mature toward vegetative 
dormancy, 23 percent of the State's pasture and rangeland was rated very 
poor, 31 percent was rated poor, 35 percent was rated fair, and 11 percent 
was rated good. Topsoil moisture levels remained mostly adequate, with 
18 percent rated very short, 23 percent rated short, and 59 percent rated 
adequate. Subsoil moisture levels followed a similar trend. Throughout the 
month of December, measurable precipitation was received across much of the 
State. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
data, much of the precipitation received was realized throughout southern 
regions where approximately 1.25 inches was recorded while northern areas of 
Arizona received anywhere between 0.10 and 0.80 inch of precipitation. The 
drought information statements for southwest Arizona and southeastern 
California, northern Arizona, and southeastern Arizona all remained in effect 
and were updated on December 22, December 24, and December 30, respectively, 
in response to below normal precipitation and above normal temperatures. 
According to the National Weather Service, rainfall across southern portions 
of Arizona has been less than 50 percent of normal over the last six months. 
Despite a disappointing monsoon season, the seasonal precipitation outlook 
for January, February, and March of 2024 shows that odds are slightly tilted 
toward wetter than normal conditions throughout most of the State with the 
exception being southeastern Arizona. Subsequently, Arizona's long-term 
drought outlook shows that conditions are expected to improve or end 
throughout all areas of the State excluding southeastern regions. As of 
December 26, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed a slight improvement from the 
previous report. Abnormally dry conditions (D0) spanned 36 percent of the 
State, moderate drought (D1) enveloped 20 percent, severe drought (D2) 
encompassed 28 percent, and extreme drought (D3) remained at 6 percent of the 
State's total land area. Arizona once again remained free of exceptional (D4) 
drought. Throughout the month of December, temperatures across much of the 
State increased according to the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC). 
Daytime highs throughout Arizona ranged from 2 to 8 degrees above normal and 
ranged from the low 40s in Coconino County to the low to mid-70s across 
southwestern regions of Arizona. Overnight lows ranged from 4 degrees below 
to 5 degrees above normal and ranged from 15 to 40 degrees across northern 
and eastern counties, whereas counties within the Sonoran Desert experienced 
lows of 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
ARKANSAS: For the week ending December 31, 2023, topsoil moisture 5% short, 
26% adequate, 69% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 5% short, 29% 
adequate, 66% surplus. Days suitable for fieldwork during the month of 
December were 17.0 days. December conditions for the State were mild with 
average rainfall. Soil samples are being taken from row crop fields and 
planning for the coming year is on the way. A lot of ground was prepared with 
good fall weather and will be ready to plant as conditions become favorable 
this spring. Livestock producers are feeding hay, for the most part, ground 
is dry.
CALIFORNIA: For the week ending December 31, 2023 - Days suitable for 
fieldwork 6.2. Topsoil moisture 5% short, 85% adequate, 10% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture 5% very short, 20% short, and 75% adequate. Winter wheat condition 
25% good and 75% excellent. As of December 29th, Snowpack content ranged from 
1.4 to 2.7 inches in the Northern, Southern and Central Sierras, well below 
average for this time of year. Winter wheat and oats were planted. Winter 
forage planting continued. Alfalfa was bagged or put into piles for haylage. 
Cotton harvest was completed, and fields were shredded and disced under. 
Garlic, squash, broccoli, and brussel sprouts were harvested along the 
Central Coast. Lettuce was harvested in the Imperial Valley. Lemons, navel 
orange, tangerine, grapefruit, and lime harvests continued but were slowed at 
the end of December due to rain. Growers utilized micro sprinklers and drip 
irrigation to deliver warmer groundwater to the soil surface to raise field 
temperatures. Fans were used to prevent cold damage before harvest. Table 
grape, pomegranate, and persimmon harvests were winding down. Kiwi harvest 
was ongoing. Stone fruit orchards and vineyards were pruned. Blueberries and 
blackberries are now dormant and nursery stock was received for planting. Bee 
hives continued to be moved into the State for overwintering. Despite 
adequate rain, foothill pastures remained dry, and many ranchers fed their 
grazing cattle supplemental hay and/or feed.
COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the entire month of December 2023. 
Topsoil moisture 16% very short, 29% short, 55% adequate. Subsoil moisture 
12% very short, 34% short, 54% adequate. Winter wheat condition 4% very poor, 
7% poor, 28% fair, 56% good, 5% excellent. Livestock condition 1% poor, 6% 
fair, 86% good, 7% excellent. Pasture and range condition 4% very poor, 8% 
poor, 16% fair, 67% good, 5% excellent. Above average temperatures and dry 
weather across the State during the month of December was interspersed with a 
few productive snowstorms. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor report 
published on December 28th, just over 63 percent of the State was abnormally 
dry or in a state of drought. Just under 9 percent of the State was in severe 
to exceptional drought, a better start than 2023 when over 30 percent of the 
State was under severe to exceptional drought conditions. Areas of Alamosa, 
Conejos, Costilla, and Rio Grande counties are experiencing extreme drought 
conditions after continued below average precipitation. Productive snowstorms 
during the latter half of December improved moisture across the State, but 
moisture levels continued significantly behind the previous year. 
Temperatures across the State for the month of December trended above 
average. Several northeastern counties realized temperatures more than six 
degrees above normal. Most of the high country experienced above average 
temperatures, while areas of Mineral County realizing temperatures more than 
2 degrees below average. Northeastern counties remained very dry, but 
received beneficial moisture at the end of December, accumulating at least 
one inch of precipitation in several areas. Reporters noted warm conditions 
have allowed cattle to thoroughly utilize corn stalks and winter grazing. 
Winter wheat conditions in the district are mixed, with earlier planted wheat 
in better condition and other areas yet to come up. Below average moisture in 
southwestern counties since the end of the growing season have worsened 
drought conditions, with most counties in a moderate drought or worse. 
Livestock producers continued to utilize winter grazing arrangements where 
available. In southeastern counties, recent snow events had provided good 
topsoil moisture. The San Luis Valley has received limited snowfall this 
winter, leaving soils dry and rangeland deteriorating. According to county 
reports, limited snow in the region has allowed open pastures and good 
livestock condition, and a good hay supply. Statewide, winter wheat condition 
declined, with 61 percent of the crop rated good to excellent, compared with 
65 percent good to excellent from the previous report and 50 percent good to 
excellent last year. As of December 31, 2023, snowpack in Colorado was 
69 percent measured as percent of median snowfall.
DELAWARE: December temperatures were mild and overall, above freezing for 
most of the month. Soil temperatures finally started to drop below 
60 degrees. Frost on ground many mornings but not below 20 degrees for 
extended times. Most days were dry, with few days experiencing rainfall. 
Rainstorms were heavy when they did occur, with several inches falling at a 
time, particularly at the beginning of the month. Farmers reported harvest 
problems with late soybeans still being green and not drying down.
FLORIDA: December temperatures were on par with historical averages, with the 
temperatures becoming gradually cooler as the month progressed. Total 
rainfall for the month ranged from 2.5 inches of rain in Polk County to over 
11 inches in Leon County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 8.1 percent 
of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's end, compared to 
21.1 percent at the month's beginning. Most of the State received moderate 
amounts of rainfall last month, which improved overall drought conditions in 
the State. Pasture conditions remained mostly fair to good, with pastures 
improving due to overall rain received. Livestock remained in mostly fair to 
good condition as well, improving as pasture conditions recovered. Sugarcane 
planting and harvest progressed well throughout December. Citrus grove 
activities throughout the month included spraying pesticides and 
nutritionals, laying herbicide, fertilizing, mowing, hedging, topping, 
removal of dead trees, replanting young trees, and general grove maintenance. 
Eleven packinghouses were active in early December with thirteen active in 
late December. Crops that were planted and harvested include sugarcane, green 
beans, yellow squash, zucchini, sweet corn, eggplant, peppers, boniato, 
bitter melon, other Asian vegetables, avocado, and other tropical fruits.
GEORGIA: December temperatures were 1.0 to 2.6 degrees warmer than historical 
averages depending on location. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 
1.7 inches in Butts County to 12.3 inches in Rabun County. According to the 
U.S. Drought Monitor, 48 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions, 
28 percent had moderate drought conditions and 11 percent had severe drought 
conditions by month's end, compared to 62 percent abnormally dry, 41 percent 
with moderate drought, 20 percent with severe drought and 9 percent with 
extreme drought at the month's beginning. Good rainfall amounts helped 
improve overall field conditions throughout the State. Livestock were 
reported to be in good condition; however, hay supplies were reported to be 
running low due to the drought in the fall. The fall drought left many 
producers unable to establish adequate winter grazing, although some 
attempted late seeding throughout December that has yet to fully establish. 
For this reason, many cattle producers were also feeding supplements in hopes 
to extend hay supplies into the spring. Planting of winter wheat also carried 
on into December, with emergence aided by sufficient rainfall in most areas. 
Harvest of cotton continued throughout the month as conditions allowed. The 
Vidalia onion crop was reported to be looking good and progressing well.
HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
IDAHO: The average temperatures in Idaho were above normal for the month of 
December. Accumulated precipitation was normal to below normal across the 
majority of Idaho, with parts of southeast Idaho slightly above normal. In 
northern Idaho, unusually warm weather and little moisture was reported. In 
Elmore and Owyhee Counties, all crops had been harvested. Subsoil moisture 
appeared deficient with frozen topsoil. An absence of measurable snow was 
reported at low to mid elevations. Beef cattle started to calve with 
favorable conditions. Jerome and Twin Falls Counties reported warm and dry 
conditions for the month, with some concern about the lack of winter moisture 
accumulation. Field activities included hauling manure from dairies to 
fields. Blaine County reported dry conditions which allowed livestock to 
graze longer into the winter months than normal. Bonneville and 
Madison Counties reported reservoir levels were good with an adequate 
snowpack. Hay stocks were adequate. Northeast Idaho had higher than normal 
temperatures with low snowfall for the year.
ILLINOIS: For the month of December 2023. Topsoil moisture supply was rated 
8 percent very short, 20 percent short, 61 percent adequate, and 11 percent 
surplus. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 12 percent very short, 48 percent 
short, 38 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Winter wheat condition was 
rated 2 percent very poor, 9 percent poor, 34 percent fair, 40 percent good, 
and 15 percent excellent. Statewide, the average temperature was 
39.2 degrees, 9.4 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 2.85 inches; 
0.16 inch above normal.
INDIANA: Topsoil moisture for the month of December was 8% very short, 32% 
short, 54% adequate, and 6% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 14% 
very short, 41% short, 42% adequate, and 3% surplus. Winter wheat condition 
was rated 2% very poor, 4% poor, 28% fair, 56% good, and 10% excellent. 
Statewide temperatures averaged 39.7 degrees, 8.6 degrees above normal for 
the month of December. Statewide average precipitation was 2.26 inches, 
0.80 inch below normal. Precipitation was all in the form of rain in 
December. There was no snow cover in Indiana. Subsoils are still very dry in 
most areas and additional precipitation is needed to replenish subsoils. 
Overall, winter wheat is in good condition. A warmer than normal early 
December should assist wheat planted later than normal. Hay is reported to be 
in short supply in some areas of the State. Some hay producers have sold out 
of all their hay. Other activities for the month included equipment 
maintenance, grain hauling, and getting paperwork ready for taxes.
IOWA: Significantly warmer than normal temperatures were experienced for much 
of December. The State received some much-needed precipitation during 
December after a very dry year. Many reporters described December as mild, 
which allowed more fertilizer, lime, and manure application. Some limited 
tile work also continued. Livestock conditions throughout the State were 
generally described as good, with no reports of death loss. Livestock 
producers' concerns included water and hay supplies, as well as pasture 
conditions going into next year. Grain movement was not hindered by the 
weather, and there were reports of operators hauling grain. Soil moisture 
levels continue to be the primary concern as farmers look forward to the 2024 
crop year.
KANSAS: For the week ending December 31, 2023, topsoil moisture supplies 
rated 16% very short, 31% short, 46% adequate, 7% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies rated 23% very short, 36% short, 40% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter 
wheat condition rated 9% very poor, 12% poor, 36% fair, 38% good, 5% 
excellent.
KENTUCKY: For the month of December, Kentucky saw above normal temperatures 
and much below normal precipitation. The State has now received below normal 
precipitation for four months straight. There were periodic rounds of rain, 
but accumulation puts 2023 as one of the driest Decembers on record. The U.S. 
drought monitor places 87% of the State as abnormally dry. This December is 
also in the top 10 warmest recorded. With unseasonably warm weather, the 
South-Central portion of the State experienced tornadic activity around 
mid-month. Temperatures for the period averaged 43 degrees across the State, 
5 degrees above normal. Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 
2.39 inches Statewide, which was 2.06 inches below normal and 54% of normal. 
Drought stunted fall pasture growth causing many farmers to begin feeding hay 
early. For the month, hay supplies 10% very short, 29% short, 57% adequate, 
4% surplus. Livestock condition 2% poor, 27% fair, 64% good, 7% excellent. 
Condition of winter wheat 2% poor, 24% fair, 63% good, 11% excellent. Tobacco 
stripping 87% complete.
LOUISIANA: For the month ending December 31, 2023, Topsoil moisture supplies 
were 19 percent very short, 45 percent short, 34 percent adequate, and 
2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 31 percent very short, 
41 percent short, 27 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. There were 
22 days suitable for fieldwork. Many operators are preparing for early spring 
planting and spring calving, flooding crawfish ponds, and placing crawfish 
traps. Throughout December, dry conditions persisted, and many cattle 
producers continued to reduce herds due to hay shortages. Sugarcane farmers 
near the end of harvest, with a significantly reduced yield due to drought 
conditions in summer and fall. No major cold events were reported. As a 
result, cattle are in generally good condition, and harvests were completed 
with minimal damage to crops.
MARYLAND: Temperatures in December were average to above average. 
Precipitation was adequate and alleviated minor drought conditions. Some 
areas experienced localized flooding due to two days of heavy precipitation 
during the third week of the month. Small grains, pasture, and cover crops 
look good for the most part. All grains were harvested.
MICHIGAN: Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 5% short, 46% adequate, 48% 
surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 19% short, 62% adequate, 17% 
surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 6% poor, 52% fair, 40% good, 2% 
excellent. Precipitation for the month of December averaged 1.94 inches 
throughout the State, 0.31 inch below normal. Temperature for the month of 
December averaged 35.4 degrees, 10.5 degrees above normal. Approximately 
59 percent of the State experienced abnormally dry conditions or worse, with 
7 percent experiencing moderate drought and 1 percent experiencing severe 
drought conditions, according to the US Drought Monitor. The driest areas 
include the Upper Peninsula and north and middle counties of the 
Lower Peninsula spanning from the west to east coast of the State. December 
has been unusually warm across the State and lack of snow has brought 
moisture concerns for spring to the forefront. Late plantings of winter wheat 
are showing emergence. Corn is still being harvested in the southeast with 
reports of vomitoxin being present. Many areas are waiting for a good freeze 
to finish harvesting. Other activities for the month included tiling work, 
purchasing seed, preparing equipment for spring, and tending livestock.
MINNESOTA: Above average temperatures and 2 to 4 inches of rain across the 
State created muddy feedlots. Lambing and calving were proceeding well, 
although there were some reports of respiratory illness in livestock. Farmers 
were able to complete more tillage and tiling with the mild weather.
MISSISSIPPI: For the week ending December 31, 2023, topsoil moisture supplies 
were 9% very short, 43% short, 45% adequate, and 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies were 16% very short, 44% short, 38% adequate, and 2% surplus. Days 
suitable for fieldwork during the month of December were 18.0 days. Some 
fieldwork is being done to prep for spring. Overall, temperatures for most of 
December have been mild. Most of the State is experiencing drought conditions 
and are looking for rain. Cooler temperatures paired with below average 
moisture supplies have resulted in slow growth on winter grasses.
MISSOURI: For the week ending December 31, 2023. Topsoil moisture 6% very 
short, 22% short, 71% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 19% very 
short, 41% short, 39% adequate, and 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% 
very poor, 2% poor, 25% fair, 63% good, and 10% excellent. Statewide, 
precipitation averaged 2.91 inches for the month of December, 0.15 inch above 
average. Temperatures averaged 71.2 degrees, 8.1 degrees below normal.
MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the entire month of December 2023. 
Topsoil moisture 46% very short, 33% short, 21% adequate. Subsoil moisture 
48% very short, 31% short, 21% adequate. Winter wheat condition 8% very poor, 
13% poor, 36% fair, 26% good, 17% excellent. Winter wheat wind damage 24% 
moderate, 3% light, 73% none. Winter wheat freeze damage 27% light, 73% none. 
Snow cover 87% very poor, 10% poor, 1% fair, 2% good. Pasture and range 
condition 36% very poor, 24% poor, 17% fair, 21% good, 2% excellent. Grazing 
accessibility 87% open, 5% difficult, 8% closed. Cattle receiving 
supplemental feed 73%. Sheep receiving supplemental feed 72%. 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 degrees above average in the 
west, and as much as 12-15 degrees above average moving north and east. 
Moisture received was about 0.75 inch below average to normal for the 
majority of Montana. In some parts of the northwest, moisture levels were as 
much as 1.5 inches or more below normal. Only isolated areas of the State 
received precipitation levels that were slightly above normal. Drought 
conditions changed significantly according to the U.S. Drought Monitor report 
released on December 28, 2023. The amount of land rated drought free fell to 
44 percent, compared to 61 percent as reported on November 30. Abnormal 
dryness was found in 37 percent of Montana, compared to 26 percent on the 
same November release. Moderate drought stood at 16 percent, and severe 
drought was found in 3 percent of the State. These conditions were rated 
8 and 5 percent, respectively, at the end of November. No major snow events 
have occurred in Broadwater County since October. The winter thus far has 
been very mild, especially as compared to last December. Producers were 
concerned about the future effects of the lack of moisture on the upcoming 
season. Temperatures were running well above normal in Mineral, Missoula, and 
Ravalli Counties. Moisture levels were below normal. Snowpack in 
Ravalli County was reportedly 40 percent of normal. Foggy conditions and 
inversions occurred in Northern Ravalli County, and in parts of 
Missoula County. Livestock were doing well for this time of year. There was, 
however, a report of a wolf attack in Ravalli County that resulted in the 
death of a cow. Lack of moisture remained a concern for the new irrigation 
season. A reporter from Valley County also indicated that the winter has so 
far been mild, and moisture was needed.
NEBRASKA: For the week ending December 31, 2023, topsoil moisture supplies 
rated 17% very short, 35% short, 44% adequate, and 4% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture supplies rated 28% very short, 38% short, 34% adequate, and 0% 
surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 4% very poor, 12% poor, 36% fair, 35% 
good, and 13% excellent.
NEVADA: For the week ending December 31, 2023 - Days suitable for fieldwork 
7.0. Topsoil moisture 10% very short, 45% short, and 45% adequate. Subsoil 
moisture 35% short, 65% adequate. Pasture and range condition 55% poor and 
45% fair. There was little to no precipitation during the month. The US 
Drought Monitor showed nearly 95% of the State had zero precipitation for the 
entire month. Temperatures remained normal to slightly above normal.
NEW ENGLAND: New England States experienced variable weather - snow, rain, 
and periods of warmth. Northern New England was among the regions with the 
greatest odds of seeing warmer-than-average conditions. A mid-December storm 
inundated the New England States under as much as 7 inches of rain and 
battered it with high winds. Some producers in Maine reported that their crop 
fields were flooded and filled with silt. Very little freezing reported in 
Vermont. However, continued wet weather and warm conditions could impact sod 
crops for 2024. Producers were looking forward to 2024 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 2024 season (NH) harvesting some cold crops and 
seeding winter rye (RI), and some maple syrup production (VT).
NEW JERSEY: Rain was extremely heavy this month with no snow. Most land left 
dry from drought earlier in the year has absorbed this excess rain, however 
some major and minor flooding has occurred in some areas of the State. 
Temperatures were warmer than average. Overwinter crops appear to be looking 
good, with some harvest occurring of crops such as leeks.
NEW MEXICO: This report for New Mexico is for the month of December 2023. 
Topsoil moisture 50% very short, 32% short, 15% adequate, 3% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture 49% very short, 40% short, 10% adequate, 1% surplus. Pecans 
harvested 50%, 84% last year. Winter wheat condition 31% poor, 46% fair, 14% 
good, 9% excellent. Cattle condition 11% poor, 39% fair, 35% good, 15% 
excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 2% very poor, 4% poor, 43% fair, 50% 
good, 1% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 38% very short, 43% short, 19% 
adequate. Stock water supplies 36% very short, 26% short, 37% adequate, 1% 
surplus. Snow helped with dry conditions in parts of New Mexico, but dry, 
warm weather prevailed in others during the month of December. Row crop 
harvest wrapped up in most areas. Cotton harvest at the end of the month was 
ahead of last year, while pecan harvest was behind last year's progress. 
Comments from several counites in the northeastern part of the State noted 
wet snow fell mid-month that helped with soil moistures. Southcentral 
counties noted conditions remained dry and windier than normal. Winter wheat 
condition declined, with 23 percent of the crop rated in good to excellent 
condition, compared with 28 percent at the end of November and 20 percent for 
December 2022. Converted moisture totals during the past month ranged from no 
precipitation to approximately 3 inches. Significant precipitation was mostly 
confined to the central counties, but most of the State only received 1 inch 
or less. Most counties saw slightly below average precipitation during 
December. Isolated areas continued to register yearly rainfall accumulation 
at or below 50 percent of normal. Conversely, yearly precipitation for areas 
in northwestern and central part of the State totaled 150 percent of normal 
or more. Average temperatures during December were generally normal except 
for the southeastern corner of the State that were below normal. According to 
the United States Drought Monitor for December 26, exceptional drought (D4) 
continued in parts of southern New Mexico including most of Eddy County and 
parts of Grant, Hildalgo, and Luna Counties. Extreme drought (D3) was noted 
across 35 percent of the State, severe drought (D2) covered 41 percent, 
moderate drought (D1) covered 12 percent, and abnormal dryness (D0) covered 
5 percent. Drought-free conditions covered less than 1 percent of the State. 
Hay and roughage supplies were reported as 38 percent very short, 43 percent 
short, and 19 percent adequate, compared with 32 percent very short, 
46 percent short, 21 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus on November 26. 
Stock water supplies were reported as 36 percent very short, 26 percent 
short, 37 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus, compared with 27 percent 
very short, 41 percent short, 31 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus on 
November 26.
NEW YORK: December overall experienced more mild temperatures for most areas 
with moderate to significant rainfall throughout the State. Some locations 
reported flooding in spots. In addition to a lack of snowfall, the mild 
weather was also a concern for keeping bee populations fed through winter as 
they were eating through feed much faster. Yields of corn were reported as 
excellent overall but that late harvested was hard to dry. There were 
positive outlooks on soybeans and winter wheat as well. Grapes had reports of 
low sugar content in one area with producers speculating cause as low light 
conditions due to forest fires in Canada.
NORTH CAROLINA: For the month ending December 31, 2023 - Subsoil moisture 2% 
very short, 4% short, 69% adequate and 25% surplus. Topsoil moisture 2% very 
short, 3% short, 62% adequate and 33% surplus. Barley condition 3% poor, 20% 
fair, 72% good and 5% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 3% very short, 7% 
short, 86% adequate and 4% surplus. Oats condition 14% fair, 85% good and 1% 
excellent. Pasture and range condition 2% very poor, 12% poor, 38% fair, 47% 
good and 1% excellent. Winter wheat condition 1% poor, 14% fair, 84% good and 
1% excellent. Throughout December, conditions have turned from very dry to 
very wet over the past two weeks. There are a few acres of soybeans 
remaining. It may be awhile before they can be harvested. Small grains are 
looking very good at this point.
NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending December 31, 2023, topsoil moisture 
supplies rated 6% very short, 21% short, 71% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture supplies rated 11% very short, 27% short, 61% adequate, 1% surplus. 
Winter wheat condition rated 0% very poor, 5% poor, 45% fair, 48% good, 2% 
excellent. Corn harvested 99%. Sunflowers harvested 97%. Cattle and calf 
conditions, 1% very poor, 2% poor, 22% fair, 70% good, 5% excellent. Sheep 
and lamb conditions, 0% very poor, 5% poor, 30% fair, 59% good, 6% excellent. 
Hay and roughage supplies, 2% very short, 18% short, 75% adequate, 5% 
surplus. Stock water supplies, 2% very short, 14% short, 83% adequate, 1% 
surplus.
OHIO: Topsoil moisture for the month was 2% very short, 8% short, 66% 
adequate, 24% surplus. Subsoil moisture for the month was 3% very short, 26% 
short, 61% adequate, 10% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 4% poor, 
25% fair, 54% good, 17% excellent. The Statewide average temperature was 
40.0 degrees, 8.3 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 2.48 inches 
Statewide, 0.44 inch below normal for December. Abnormally mild temperatures 
were observed across much of the State. The December monthly average 
temperature was the third highest on record, with negligible amounts of snow 
cover recorded. The moderate temperatures enabled growers to continue to 
harvest corn. A round of late-month rain events helped to replenish soil 
moisture. Reporters noted that field activities were hampered by the 
relatively warm and damp soil conditions. Livestock farmers described muddy 
and deteriorated pastures, with operations having transitioned to the use of 
stored forage.
OKLAHOMA: For the month of December, rainfall totals averaged 2.70 inches 
throughout the State, with the West Central district recording the highest 
precipitation at 3.40 inches and the Southeast district recording the lowest 
precipitation at 2.35 inches. According to the December 26th, US Drought 
Monitor Report, 46 percent of the State was in the abnormally dry to 
exceptional drought category, down 52 points from the previous year. 
Additionally, 21 percent of the State was in the moderate drought to 
exceptional drought category, down 69 points from the previous year. 
Statewide temperatures averaged in the upper 30's to upper 40's, with the 
lowest recording of 10 degrees at Kenton on Saturday, December 2nd, and the 
highest recording of 80 degrees at Burneyville on Friday, December 8th. 
Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly adequate to short.
OREGON: Temperatures throughout the State were above average for the month of 
December. Moisture conditions throughout the State ranged from dry to wet for 
December. Columbia, Multnomah, and Washington Counties reported below average 
rainfall, but sufficient for fall planted crops. Pastures were in good 
condition headed into the fall. Nursery and berry crops were also reported in 
good condition. Benton and Lincoln Counties reported that rainfall was lower 
than average throughout the month with mild temperatures. However, there were 
a few large storms that brought roughly 10 inches of rain within a few days 
and caused some localized flooding. There were no days reported with snow and 
a few days of freezing temperatures. Many livestock producers were operating 
under a feed shortage due to the summer drought and some operators sold 
livestock if they were not able to acquire enough hay to last through the 
winter. Clatsop and Tillamook Counties reported that manure was spread as a 
necessity due to tank overfill. The rain and temperatures were reported to be 
average. Hood River, Sherman, and Wasco Counties reported warmer than normal 
temperatures for this time of year with a fair amount of precipitation. 
Livestock were doing well in the warmer temperatures and required less 
supplemental hay. Morrow County reported that December rainfall wet the 
seed-zone adequately. Mountain snow was limited and much less than last year. 
Baker and Grant Counties reported warm temperatures and very little snow 
compared to normal years. Umatilla County reported precipitation was well 
below average, and temperatures were above average, with snowpack in the 
Blue Mountains far below average for this time of year. Crops and livestock 
were doing well so far this season. Douglas, Jackson, and Josephine Counties 
reported that pasture had ample water supply, steady rain, and average 
grazing conditions. Malheur County reported less than average precipitation 
with snow levels below average for this time of year. Temperatures were 
consistently above average which left the valley floors free of snow. Foggy 
conditions with high pressure systems created poor air quality for a portion 
of the month.
PENNSYLVANIA: The State has experienced a mild winter so far with rainy 
conditions. The warm conditions and frequent rains allowed for the soil to be 
able to get a good recharge of ground water. After a late planting season 
this year, some producers reported that the 2023 crop production was 
excellent along with good corn and soybean yields. The tobacco farmers were 
in the process of stripping and baling this year's crop, reporting that 
tobacco quality was good and prices were strong. Cover crops and small grains 
were continuing to grow due to warmer conditions.
SOUTH CAROLINA: December temperatures were 1.0 to 3.6 degrees warmer than 
historic averages depending on location. Total rainfall during the month 
ranged from 3.6 inches in Florence County to 14.0 inches in 
Georgetown County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 50 percent of the 
State had abnormally dry conditions, 23 percent had moderate drought 
conditions and 5 percent had severe drought conditions by month's end, 
compared to 69 percent abnormally dry, 41 percent with moderate drought, 
15 percent with severe drought and 3 percent with extreme drought at the 
month's beginning. Harvest of cotton and soybeans continued throughout the 
month as conditions allowed. Planting of winter wheat also carried on into 
December, with emergence aided by sufficient rainfall in most areas. Good 
weather conditions allowed farmers to start taking soil samples and begin 
preparing for the spring.
SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending December 31, 2023, topsoil moisture 
supplies rated 3% very short, 18% short, 71% adequate, 8% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture supplies rated 5% very short, 26% short, 65% adequate, 4% surplus. 
Winter wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 7% poor, 38% fair, 48% good, and 
6% excellent.
TENNESSEE: For the week ending December 31, Days suitable 4.8. Topsoil 
moisture 7% very short, 37% short, 55% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
8% very short, 39% short, 52% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat condition 4% 
very poor, 6% poor, 38% fair, 40% good, 12% excellent. Pasture and Range 
condition 14% very poor, 30% poor, 40% fair, 15% good, 1% excellent. Cattle 
condition 1% very poor, 5% poor, 28% fair, 60% good, and 6% excellent. Hay 
and roughage supplies are 7% very short, 32% short, 57% adequate, 4% surplus. 
Tennessee experienced mild weather with minimal rainfall throughout the 
month. Temperatures have been near average or slightly above average. 
Re-seeded pastures and winter wheat are a bit behind coming out of the fall 
drought, but soil moisture levels are slowly starting to recover. Producers 
report natural water sources remain below normal levels as well.
TEXAS: For the month of December, precipitation ranged from trace amounts to 
upwards of 6 inches, with the Northern Low Plains, the Blacklands, and the 
Upper Coast receiving the most. Cotton harvest was near complete across the 
State. Pecan harvest continued in the Cross Timbers and South-Central 
districts. Citrus, sugarcane, vegetable, and strawberries were being 
harvested in South Texas and the Lower Valley. Small grains planting was near 
completion, however, crop development was on track with fields benefiting 
from recent rains. Range and Pasture conditions were rated 65 percent poor to 
very poor. Supplemental feeding continued across the State.
UTAH: This report for Utah is for the entire month of December 2023. Topsoil 
moisture 5% very short, 7% short, 77% adequate, 11% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
1% very short, 10% short, 79% adequate, 10% surplus. Pasture and range 
condition 1% poor, 12% fair, 85% good, 2% excellent. Winter wheat condition 
24% fair, 68% good, 8% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% short, 63% 
adequate, 36% surplus. Stock water supplies 1% very short, 1% short, 74% 
adequate, 24% surplus. Cattle and calves condition 10% fair, 75% good, 15% 
excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 15% fair, 67% good, 18% excellent. 
Livestock receiving supplemental feed for cattle 65%. Livestock receiving 
supplemental feed for sheep 54%. Cows calved 1%. As of December 31, 2023, 
snowpack in Utah was 68 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. 
Beaver, Box Elder, Cache, and Grand Counties noted mild warm weather along 
with limited moisture. Beaver and Box Elders Counties noted that livestock 
producers were still grazing cattle instead of feeding hay due to mild 
weather. Box Elder County reports lack of snow cover for winter wheat before 
upcoming colder weather.
VIRGINIA: For week ending December 31, 2023. Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 
9% short, 77% adequate, 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% very short, 29% 
short, 58% adequate, 11% surplus. Winter wheat condition 2% poor, 19% fair, 
78% good, 1% excellent. Barley condition 43% fair, 57% good. Livestock 
condition 2% poor, 28% fair, 62% good, 8% excellent. Pasture and Range 
condition 4% very poor, 25% poor, 31% fair, 40% good. Hay and roughage 
supplies 6% very short, 31% short, 62% adequate, 1% surplus. Percent of feed 
obtained from pastures 17%. Virginia experienced above normal temperatures 
and precipitation in December. The rain was too late to stimulate grass 
growth, so pastures are short in many areas. Excessive rainfall in several 
areas has saturated the fields which resulted in muddy ground and standing 
water in some areas. Wet pastures are getting torn up by livestock that do 
not have alternative paddocks to move to. Hay and roughage supplies are 
mostly adequate to short. Primary activities for the month include equipment 
maintenance and purchasing seed and fertilizer.
WASHINGTON: Washington experienced warmer than average temperatures across 
the State. Accumulated precipitation varied from below average in western 
Washington to slightly above average in eastern Washington. Skagit County has 
had a mild winter to date and winter crops looked good. Whatcom County was 
drier than normal. Klickitat and Yakima Counties were warmer than normal with 
not many nights below freezing. A small amount of snow was received towards 
the end of the month, followed by rain. Fall seeding was halted due to wet 
fields. Many cattle were moved to feedlots for the winter, with any on 
pasture being heavily supplemented. Vegetable and fruit producers used the 
mild winter to clean up and prepare fields, orchards, vineyards and hopyards 
for next season. Tree and vine pruning activities took place over the month. 
Okanogan County reported a lack of snow cover and warmer than normal 
temperatures. Pend Oreille and Spokane Counties have had a mild winter to 
date. Some cattle were observed grazing. Winter crops looked to be in fair 
condition. Mild weather was reported, with no unusual weather systems for 
Grant County. Adams and Lincoln Counties experienced warmer than normal 
temperatures with good precipitation for the month. Asotin and 
Garfield Counties received a lot of rain with some snow at high elevations.
WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending December 31, Topsoil moisture 14% very 
short, 14% short, 55% adequate, and 17% surplus. Subsoil moisture 17% very 
short, 20% short, 57% adequate, and 6% surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 3% 
very short, 10% short, 79% adequate, and 8% surplus. Feed grain supplies 7% 
short, 89% adequate, and 4% surplus. Winter wheat condition 14% poor, 45% 
fair, 40% good, and 1% excellent. Cattle and calves condition 1% very poor, 
4% poor, 21% fair, 59% good, and 15% excellent. Sheep and lambs condition 1% 
poor, 24% fair, 66% good, and 9% excellent. Weather conditions for the month 
have been a mix of cold and warm temperatures with rain and snow. Farming 
activities for the month included preparing for cold weather and planning for 
the next growing season.
WISCONSIN: December was unseasonably warm across Wisconsin, averaging 
32.1 degrees, 13.0 degrees above normal. The State averaged 1.56 inches of 
precipitation throughout the month, 0.22 inch above normal. However, most 
precipitation was rain due to warmer weather, and much of the State still 
lacks snow cover and frost. This allowed for many farmers to finish their 
fall fieldwork such as tilling fields and applying manure. In some Northern 
counties, a little corn remained unharvested due to storage being at 
capacity. In warmer areas, some alfalfa fields broke dormancy, raising 
concerns about potential damage later in the winter.
WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of December 2023. 
Topsoil moisture 12% very short, 34% short, 53% adequate, 1% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture 17% very short, 40% short, 43% adequate. Winter wheat condition 7% 
very poor, 7% poor, 53% fair, 32% good, 1 percent excellent. Hay and roughage 
supplies 1% very short, 12% short, 86% adequate, 1 percent surplus. Livestock 
condition 1% very poor, 1% poor, 2% fair, 85% good, 11% excellent. Stock 
water supplies 3% very short, 11% short, 86% adequate. Pasture and range 
condition 4% very poor, 8% poor, 33% fair, 51% good, 4% surplus. Wyoming 
received little relief from the ongoing drought conditions during the month 
of December, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National 
Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Rainfall was scattered and total 
accumulations varied, ranging from a trace to as much as 4 inches during the 
month, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
(NOAA). Some areas received no measurable rainfall. Temperatures ran above 
normal for most of the State, ranging from no change to 8 degrees above 
average. There was little change in drought conditions during December 
according to the United States Drought Monitor report published on 
December 26, 2023. The amount of land rated drought free equaled 75 percent, 
compared with 88 percent on November 28, 2023. Abnormally dry conditions 
covered 22 percent of Wyoming, and moderate drought was found in 3 percent. 
Reports from Goshen County indicated the dry conditions have been favorable 
for cattle on feed. Platte County reporters noted little moisture received in 
the last month, with unseasonably warm weather for this time of year.

Statistical Methodology

Survey Procedures: Crop progress and condition estimates included in this 
report are based on survey data collected in December, January, February, and 
March. The non-probability crop progress and condition surveys include input 
from approximately 4,000 respondents whose occupations provide them 
opportunities to make visual observations and frequently bring them in 
contact with farmers in their counties. Based on standard definitions, these 
respondents subjectively estimate the progress of crops through various 
stages of development, as well as the progress of producer activities. They 
also provide subjective evaluations of crop and soil moisture conditions. Any 
weather data mentioned in this report is provided by outside sources such as 
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Agricultural 
Weather Information Service (AWIS).

Information Contacts

Listed below are the commodity statisticians in the Crops Branch of the National Agricultural 
Statistics Service to contact for additional information. E-mail inquiries may be sent to 
nass@usda.gov.

Chris Hawthorn, Acting Chief, Crops Branch........................................... (202) 720-2127

Chris Hawthorn, Head, Field Crops Section............................................ (202) 720-2127
     Irwin Anolik - Crop Progress and Condition...................................... (202) 720-7621
     Joshua Bates - Hemp, Oats, Soybeans............................................. (202) 690-3234
     Natasha Bruton - Barley, Cotton System Consumption and Stocks, Grain Crushings.. (202) 690-1042
     David Colwell - Fats and Oils, Flour Milling Products........................... (202) 720-8800
     Michelle Harder - County Estimates, Hay......................................... (202) 690-8533
     James Johanson - Rye, Wheat..................................................... (202) 720-8068
     Greg Lemmons - Corn, Flaxseed, Proso Millet..................................... (202) 720-9526
     Becky Sommer - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum................................. (202) 720-5944
     Travis Thorson - Sunflower, Other Oilseeds...................................... (202) 720-7369
     Jennifer Van Court - Peanuts, Rice.............................................. (202) 720-2127

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