(ND Ag Connection) – Weather conditions have presented challenges with intermittent rains affecting some areas of the state, particularly the eastern regions which received the most precipitation. This follows a dry start to the season; Most areas have now received enough rainfall to meet the normal precipitation levels for this time of year. Western parts of the state remain an exception.

In North Dakota, spring wheat planting is making remarkable progress, with about 70% of the crop now in the ground. This is a notable improvement over last year’s 40% and beats the historical average of 53%.

Currently approx 30% of spring wheat has emerged. Nationwide, 79% of the spring wheat has been planted. Other states like South Dakota and Minnesota are nearly finished with planting, while Montana has reached about 81% completion.

Durum wheat, another key crop, also shows strong planting figures. About two-thirds of North Dakota’s durum wheat has been sown, which is far ahead of last year’s 31% and the average of 43%. This is particularly good news for producers in drier regions, who have welcomed the recent rains.

About 26% of the durum wheat has emerged. In Montana, 71% of the durum crop has been planted, with 37% emergence, both figures surpassing average expectations.

These numbers are encouraging for producers, indicating robust growth conditions and promising prospects for this year’s wheat yields.