NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Fieldwork is advancing across much of the country as warmer temperatures return, but uneven moisture continues to shape conditions. Some regions are gaining momentum, while others face delays due to drought or excessive rain.
Great Plains
- Texas: Corn planting is active in the South and Central regions, while cotton ground preparation continues across the High Plains. Wheat is progressing but remains under stress in drier western areas, with limited subsoil moisture.
- Oklahoma: Fertilizer applications and early planting prep continue. Winter wheat shows mixed conditions, with drought stress persisting in western counties.
- Kansas: Wheat conditions remain variable and rainfall-dependent. Early fieldwork has begun in southern areas, but cool soils are slowing corn planting progress.
Midwest
- Iowa: Fertilizer applications and tillage are underway. Soil moisture is adequate, but planting remains limited as producers wait for warmer soil temperatures.
- Illinois: Southern Illinois has started limited corn planting. Cooler conditions across central and northern regions are slowing broader field activity.
- Indiana: Fieldwork is increasing as conditions improve. Producers are preparing equipment and monitoring soil temperatures before widespread planting begins.
Delta & South
- Arkansas: Corn planting continues, especially in southern counties. Periodic rainfall is slowing progress in some areas, though moisture levels remain favorable.
- Mississippi: Planting is moving forward between rain events. Saturated soils in low-lying areas are creating localized delays.
- Louisiana: Corn and sugarcane planting continues, though wet conditions at times limit field access. Early crop development remains favorable.
West & Southwest
- California: Orchard and vineyard management is ongoing, with irrigation and pest control in focus. Water availability remains a concern despite recent improvements.
- Arizona: Vegetable harvest is active, and spring planting continues. Rising temperatures are increasing irrigation demand.
Northwest & Northern Rockies
- Idaho: Snowpack supports irrigation outlook, but fieldwork remains limited due to cool temperatures. Producers are preparing for planting.
- Montana: Winter conditions continue to limit activity. Livestock operations remain focused on feeding and herd management.
Northeast
- New York: Maple syrup production continues with variable sap flow. Dairy producers are preparing for spring forage planting.
- Pennsylvania: Fertilizer applications are beginning where conditions allow. Fieldwork remains limited but is increasing.
Upper Midwest & Great Lakes
- Minnesota: Snow is melting in southern areas, allowing early preparation. Northern regions remain largely inactive due to lingering winter conditions.
- Wisconsin: Dairy operations are steady. Producers are preparing for planting, with soil moisture generally adequate.
Far North & Territories
- Alaska: Winter conditions dominate. Agricultural activity is minimal, with a focus on livestock care and planning for the short growing season.
Related Stories
Dry conditions are already showing up in pastures across the region this April.
Higher cow numbers and slightly stronger output per cow pushed milk production above last year.
Rotational grazing can improve pasture use and soil health while helping control feed and drought-related risk.
March cold storage data showed generally tighter year-over-year stock levels across several key meat and dairy categories.
Spring Weather Splits Conditions Across American Farm Country
Pork Industry Unites Behind National Strategy to Protect the U.S. Swine Herd and Boost Profitability
Meredith Petersen joined us to discuss the National Swine Health Strategy, how it was developed through industry collaboration, potential challenges ahead, and its expected benefits for pork producers.
