Crop Progress and Condition Report – Week Ending June 10, 2018

AGRICULTURAL SUMMARY: Abnormally hot and dry conditions accelerated crop development and fieldwork across Colorado last week, according to the Mountain Region Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Most areas received no moisture last week, but some isolated storms with damaging hail were observed in northeastern counties. Northeastern county reporters noted most crops and rangeland were in overall good condition. However, hot temperatures and windy, dry conditions were concerning for non-irrigated crop yields in drier areas. In east central counties, pasture conditions continued to decline due to lack of moisture. Concerns were also noted regarding the effect of no received moisture and hot temperatures on winter wheat test weights. In southwestern counties, drought conditions persisted with no relief. Fire danger was extremely high with an additional fire reported last week. A reporter noted that many spring crops were not emerging as expected and that irrigation water availability was a fraction of normal. Higher incidences of grasshoppers were also reported. In the San Luis Valley, reporters noted potatoes were mostly emerged and growing fast. Barley was also starting to head. Rangeland was noted to be in poor condition with decreased production in areas due to lack of moisture. Southeastern county reporters noted conditions were hot and dry last week, but that alfalfa harvest was moving along and quality was good so far. Statewide, winter wheat was rated 53 percent good to excellent, compared with 48 percent good to excellent last year. Stored feed supplies were rated 8 percent very short, 23 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Sheep death loss was 42 percent average and 58 percent light. Cattle death loss was 72 percent average and 28 percent light.

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