Winter wheat harvest almost complete

Soil moisture supplies improved with monsoon rainfall during the week ending July 29, which was mostly concentrated in eastern districts, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Mountain Regional Field Office, Colorado. Statewide, winter wheat harvest was virtually complete by week’s end. In northeastern counties, received moisture held conditions steady and provided relief to drier areas. Reduced fieldwork was noted due to adverse weather, which mostly affected the end of winter wheat harvest and hay harvest. Several reporters noted late week storms brought high winds, heavy rain, and localized hail that severely damaged crops and caused significant losses in areas. Spring crops, rangeland, and livestock were reportedly doing well aside from isolated severe weather damage. East central counties also received beneficial moisture last week, although rainfall was spotty in areas. Reporters noted severe weather in Morgan and Washington counties brought tornadoes and hail upwards of 3 inches in diameter. Severe damage and crop losses were noted. In southwestern counties, precipitation was minimal. Exceptional drought conditions persisted and ranchers continued to sell off stock in response. Production from first cutting alfalfa was noted to be below average. The San Luis Valley received some scattered moisture with reports of light hail, but overall conditions remained very dry. A reporter noted aphids were observed in small grains and hay but that crop conditions remained steady. In southeastern counties, rain was received in several areas last week, bringing some relief to dry conditions. Localized rainfall of up to 6 inches was observed along with minor flooding.