CROP SUMMARY FOR THE LAST WEEK
Rains brought much needed relief to dry conditions throughout Sodbuster Township. Days suitable for field work were 5.5. Average precipitation remained below normal at 1.52 inches. The average temperature was an above-normal 77 degrees. Sporadic rainfall was beneficial to crop growth, but not quite enough to replenish soil moisture levels in all areas. Pasture conditions continue to deteriorate. Many livestock producers are feeding hay and supplemental feed. First cutting hay yields were said to be extremely low. The corn crop in most areas benefited from the rains, but in some areas is still showing signs of stress from the earlier dry conditions. Early sweet corn is in full tassel, and other vegetable crops are doing well. Winter wheat yields were reported to be high with good grain quality. Reporters say most of the tobacco crop looks good, considering the lack of moisture. Tobacco producers began irrigation this week. Other farm activities included harvesting barley, scouting fields, and applying herbicides to soybean fields.