(ND Ag Connection) – By Scout Nelson

As of November 17, 2024, the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service reported 5.9 days suitable for fieldwork in North Dakota. This period provided opportunities for critical harvest activities, which saw notable progress across major crops.

Topsoil and Subsoil Moisture Levels:

Moisture levels reflect a mix of shortfalls and adequate supplies. Topsoil moisture was rated at 14% very short, 41% short, 43% adequate, and 2% surplus, indicating that while adequate conditions exist for many, drought concerns persist in some areas. Similarly, subsoil moisture was rated 14% very short, 39% short, 45% adequate, and 2% surplus, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining consistent water availability for crops.

Field Crop Condition and Harvest Progress:

Winter wheat conditions in North Dakota were rated 3% very poor, 25% poor, 20% fair, 45% good, and 7% excellent. This reflects some variability in crop health, with most fields showing favorable growth conditions.

The corn harvest in North Dakota is 95% complete, which is a significant increase compared to 84% at the same time last year and a five-year average of 79%. Sunflower harvest progress is also ahead, reaching 86% completion compared to 68% last year and the five-year average of 75%.

Pasture and Range Report:

Pasture and range conditions remain mixed, with ratings of 11% very poor, 33% poor, 28% fair, 27% good, and 1% excellent. Stock water supplies showed a similar pattern, with 12% rated very short, 30% short, 56% adequate, and 2% surplus, revealing some areas continue to face water scarcity issues.

These insights highlight the varied crop and moisture conditions in North Dakota, signaling positive trends in crop harvesting alongside persistent moisture challenges.