Conditions ideal for fieldwork

Conditions the week ending Sept. 2 were generally ideal for fieldwork, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Mountain Regional Field Office, Colorado. Harvest and maturity of several crops proceeded well ahead of the average. Northeastern and east central counties experienced mixed conditions last week varying between hot weather and cooler, overcast days. Minimal moisture was received, causing further concern in drier areas regarding fall planting and pasture conditions. A reporter noted corn fields damaged by hail and tornadoes on July 29 were being swathed or cut for silage. Other storm-affected corn fields with little viable plant material were being turned under. Some livestock producers in drought-stressed areas of these counties were reportedly utilizing other grazing options, such as CRP. Demand for surplus feed supplies was noted to be very strong. Southwestern counties received some scattered moisture, but it made no dent in the drought and conditions remained dire for producers. In the San Luis Valley, some localities received upwards of 0.75 inches of moisture at week’s end. Potato harvest started to pick up while barley harvest neared completion for several producers. Livestock were reportedly doing well despite drought-stressed rangeland conditions. In southeastern counties, reporters noted scattered moisture was received last week. A reporter mentioned alfalfa hay quality decreased due to increased incidence of weeds from recent rains. Statewide, corn was rated 72 percent good to excellent, compared to 55 percent good to excellent last year.