Crop Progress and Condition for the Week Ending June 29, 2014.
Days suitable for fieldwork were 5.4. Topsoil moisture was 45% very short, 21% short and 34% adequate. Subsoil moisture 44% very short, 23% short and 33% adequate.
County Comments:
Taos – Strong winds and warm temperatures have caused a decrease to soil moisture on farm/pasture lands. Hay crop is off to a good start, as 1st cutting of the season is 25% complete.
Rio Arriba – Over the weekend we had a dry lightning strike. Over 1,000 acres have now burnt in the Coyote area.
Colfax – Have had some hail, lots of wind and minimal rain.
Curry – Spotty rain in the past few days and weeks with all areas receiving some much needed moisture, with some in adequate amounts. Areas are in need of moisture soon to maintain optimum growing conditions. Livestock in moderate to excellent condition. Wheat harvest for grain has not yet begun and will be limited. Alfalfa growers sustained some damage but no total loses. Some planting of corn still progressing though most is complete and most has emerged. Some hay-grazer, milo planting being completed.
Roosevelt – Rains were HUGE blessing. Landscape is drying out again. Need additional rain to bring along crops and range.
Chaves – Very hot temperatures.
Lea – Nice and dry once again.
Otero – Triple digit temperatures have played havoc on native grasses and forbs in the valley and mountain pastures. No rainfall. Pecan trees are fair to excellent. Pistachio crop was good to excellent. Cattle producers continue to destock and plan for drought conditions throughout the season.
