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AGRICULTURAL SUMMARY
South Dakota was left with 4.4 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending July 25, 2010. Scattered showers and sunshine around the state aided in crop development and moistened soils, while other areas received no moisture. Severe storms and damaging hail were reported again last week in areas around the state. Field pests continue to be a problem in western parts of the state as the grasshopper, weevil, and caterpillars continue to take a toll on crops. Major farm activities include spraying crops, harvesting hay and winter wheat. This report was based on information from county extension educators, Farm Service Agency county directors, and other reporters across the state.
WEATHER INFORMATION
Warm temperatures were evident across the state over the last week with temperatures in many locations in the 80s and 90s, according to the State Climate Office of South Dakota. Most locations were 1-7° F below average. Spearfish had the high for the week at 97° F; Custer had the low temperature at 45° F. There was precipitation last week however is unavailable.
SOIL CONDITION
Topsoil moisture was rated 84 percent adequate to surplus for last week, 19 percentage points above the previous year and 39 percentage points above the five-year average. Subsoil moisture was 89 percent adequate to surplus, 26 percentage points above the previous year and 36 percentage points above the five-year average.
FIELD CROPS REPORT
This week’s mixed weather conditions brought damage to some areas and in other areas, great conditions for crop development. Winter wheat continues to be harvested rapidly, now 61 percent complete. This is ahead of last year when only 35 percent was harvested, but behind the five-year average of 62 percent. Spring wheat harvest is also beginning, and is now 6 percent complete, slightly behind the five-year average of 17 percent. Corn is 75 percent tasseled, 42 percentage points above the previous year and 14 percentage points above the five-year average. Soybeans are 66 percent blooming, 9 points behind the 75 percent for the five-year average.
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