High temps encourage spring planting preparation

For the month of February 2017, temperatures averaged six to eight degrees above normal across Nebraska, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Heavy snow occurred over northern portions of the state during the month. 

Temperatures peaked in 70s during the third week, resulting in producers beginning preparations for spring planting. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 8 percent very short, 17 short, 68 adequate, and 7 surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 9 percent very short, 21 short, 66 adequate, and 4 surplus.

Field Crops Report

Winter wheat condition rated 2 percent very poor, 8 poor, 46 fair, 40 good, and 4 excellent.

Livestock, Pasture and Range Report

Cattle and calf conditions rated 0 percent very poor, 1 poor, 13 fair, 74 good, and 12 excellent. Calving progress was 19 percent complete. Cattle and calf death loss rated 0 percent heavy, 66 average, and 34 light.

Sheep and lamb conditions rated 1 percent very poor, 1 poor, 17 fair, 77 good, and 4 excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss rated 1 percent heavy, 65 average, and 34 light.

Hay and roughage supplies rated 1 percent very short, 3 short, 89 adequate, and 7 surplus.

Stock water supplies rated 1 percent very short, 6 short, 92 adequate, and 1 surplus.

Data for this news release were provided at the county level by USDA Farm Service Agency and UNL Extension Service.