Crop Progress and Condition for the Week Ending November 16, 2014.
Row Crops: Corn was 84 percent harvested as of last week, up from 72 percent a week earlier. This is slightly behind 88 percent on average. Seventy-four percent of the sorghum crop was harvested, compared with 80 percent last year and the average of 79 percent.
The harvest of sugarbeets was virtually complete by week’s end. The sunflower harvest remains behind average, with 76 percent complete as of last week. A year earlier, 92 percent of the crop was harvested while, on average, 84 percent is harvested by this time.
Agricultural Summary: Frigid weather conditions occurred in many areas last week while wet conditions delayed agricultural activity in several localities along and east of the Front Range. However, some progress was achieved between precipitation events in localities not impacted by rain or snow. Reporters indicated much of the northwest and mountain district was under snow as of last week. Some concerns were expressed over winter wheat winterkill in the northeastern district.
Statewide, farmers were allowed 5.0 days in the field for operations.
Pasture and Range: Pasture and range conditions were rated 66 percent fair to good across the State. On average, 56 percent is fair to good.
Livestock: Death losses for cattle and sheep remained mostly average to light. With no change from last week, stored feed supplies were rated 2 percent very short, 6 percent short, 73 percent adequate, and 19 percent surplus.
