South Dakota remains too cool and dry for most fieldwork

Most South Dakota farmers are still waiting for the combination of good weather and warmer soil temperatures before moving into fieldwork.

USDA reporters say only 15% of the state’s spring wheat is planted, which is 27% behind last year but still ahead of the five-year average of 12%. 

Sixteen percent of South Dakota’s oats are planted with 1% emerging.

Some parts of the state are better off when it comes to moisture levels.  USDA says statewide, 20% of subsoil and topsoil is rated very short on moisture and 44% of topsoil is short on moisture with only 33% of the land having adequate moisture levels. 

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