NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Producers made gradual progress nationwide last week as mixed weather shaped planting preparation, livestock conditions, and transportation logistics. Moisture improved soil profiles in some regions while wind, dryness, and lingering frost slowed early fieldwork elsewhere.
Great Plains
- Kansas producers advanced fertilizer work and early field preparation as winds and dry conditions increased fire concerns across western counties.
- Nebraska reported improving soil moisture in eastern areas, while western regions stayed dry with ranchers monitoring pasture recovery.
- Oklahoma livestock producers tracked strong feeder demand as range conditions remained uneven.
Midwest
- Iowa farmers moved ahead with fertilizer applications and equipment preparation as soils slowly warmed.
- Illinois producers reported improving field conditions though saturated spots delayed activity in river bottoms.
- Indiana saw limited early work as frost remained in northern fields.
- Ohio producers also reported slow progress due to lingering frost and wet areas.
Delta & South
- Arkansas growers began limited corn and rice planting where soils allowed.
- Mississippi producers monitored rainfall delays impacting early fieldwork.
- Louisiana producers managed water levels for rice fields ahead of expected precipitation.
- Alabama livestock operators reported stable forage supplies following scattered rains.
West & Southwest
- California growers continued irrigation planning and orchard care amid water supply concerns.
- Arizona vegetable harvest remained active with steady shipments.
- New Mexico producers assessed forage conditions after limited winter precipitation.
Northwest & Northern Rockies
- Washington wheat areas reported mixed soil moisture with early fertilizer applications underway.
- Idaho producers monitored snowpack runoff prospects as spring approaches.
- Montana ranchers tracked feed supplies as winter lingered in northern areas.
Northeast
- Pennsylvania dairy producers reported steady milk output and adequate feed supplies.
- New York growers prepared equipment while monitoring wet field conditions.
Upper Midwest & Great Lakes
- Minnesota producers saw gradual snowmelt but limited fieldwork due to frozen soils.
- Wisconsin dairy operations reported steady production and stable feed availability.
Far North & Territories
- Alaska producers maintained winter feeding programs and prepared for spring calving while monitoring transportation logistics in remote areas.
Related Stories
Record ethanol production, coupled with stronger demand, supports corn use despite tighter margins elsewhere.
A new maritime biofuels coalition aims to position ocean shipping as a significant growth market for U.S. crops and waste-derived fuels.
Tim and Sharyn Abbott of the Music City Celebration Sale recap the weekend’s premier auction, which drew top dairy breeders and buyers to Nashville again this year from across North America.
Fertilizer markets face uncertainty after President Trump raised the possibility of tariffs on Canadian imports, with analysts warning of supply and pricing risks. Josh Linville with StoneX provides a fertilizer industry outlook.
A new study found that retaining the EPA’s half-RIN credit protects soybean demand, farm income, and crushing-sector strength while preserving biofuel market flexibility.
The U.S. has a bountiful corn supply, but markets are waiting for the January WASDE Report, which will include updated yield estimates.
