While spring wheat harvest has officially began in North Dakota, progress so far has been minimal and a bit slow. More harvest activity should start in the next week or so as the crop ripens more and dries out. Some producers are still 2-3 weeks away from beginning harvest.

This week’s USDA Crop Progress report indicated that about 5% of the North Dakota spring wheat had been harvested. The crop that has been harvested was planted early, before the rains and snow delayed planting, and likely has some of the higher yield potential. Reported yields have been good so far with producers seeing average to slightly above average yields. With only a small portion harvested, more accurate reports will be available in the weeks to come. Protein levels so far have been at least 14% and test weights have been strong.

Quick rain showers, high humidity and heavy morning dews have delayed drying in some areas. Crop condition ratings dropped slightly in the state with 72% of the crop rated in good to excellent condition.

Harvest has progressed more rapidly in other spring wheat states. The South Dakota crop is now about 72% harvested as dry harvest weather has allowed for good harvest pace. In Montana, just over a fourth of the spring wheat has been harvested and about 12% has been harvested in Minnesota.

Overall, 16% of the U.S. spring wheat crop has been harvested, compared to 35% on average.