South Dakota’s Soil Moisture a Concern

South Dakota farmers are already dealing with low prices for commodities. They certainly are hoping for low levels of worries on their upcoming crop.

However, right now soil moisture is a concern. A new report out focuses on the situation. Soil moisture supplies in South Dakota remain low as spring planting season nears.

The Agriculture Department's monthly crop report shows both topsoil and subsoil moisture supplies in the state rated at 63 percent short or very short.

Many South Dakota farmers dealt with crippling drought last year. The most recent U.S. Drought Monitor map shows more than half of the state still in moderate to severe drought.

Crop producers are hoping for w wet spring. With low amounts of run off from the snow melt in much of the state, rainfall will be much in need.

The Agriculture Department report shows that about one-third of the state's winter wheat crop is rated in poor or very poor condition as February ends.

See Also: