Crop progress report: Warmer Than Normal Temperatures Continued in Washington

From NASS

There were 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork in Washington, down from 7 days reported the previous week. Statewide, average temperatures remained well above normal throughout Washington. Little to no precipitation was reported statewide. Wildfire smoke from fires in central and western Washington impacted air quality in both regions.

Western Washington remained unseasonably dry. The dry fall was favorable for late planted grains such as barley. The barley crop had more time to mature in the field, and producers were able to harvest under good field conditions. The same applied to other fall-harvested vegetable seed crops that were planted late due to spring rains. Chopping corn silage under hot, dry conditions was beneficial for storage and allowed dairy farmers to get into their fields timely. Fall-planted vegetable seed crops, such as cabbage, had to be irrigated numerous times. Pastures were still brown. The last cuttings of hay were light. Lack of ground moisture was an issue with the fall–planted crops and cover crops due to lack of germination.

In central and east central Washington, another hot and dry week was reported. Above normal temperatures and lack of moisture were worrisome to most. Reports from farmers indicated that the above average temperatures and lack of rainfall since planting had an increasingly noticeable impact on the winter wheat crop. In general, a lack of growth and more yellowing were reported due to the lack of moisture. No fall green–up in pastures was reported. Livestock producers bought more hay and fed earlier.

Northeast Washington was dry, with cooler temperatures reported during the evening hours. Canola stands were in good to fair condition.

In southeast Washington, soil moisture remained adequate due to rainfall received several weeks ago. More rain was needed. Most fall crop seeding was complete.

Washington crop condition

Winter wheat:
4% very poor
5% poor
25% fair
58% good
8% excellent

Washington crop progress:

Winter wheat planted:
89% this week
80% last week
92% last year
86% 5-year average

Winter wheat emerged:
64% this week
46% last week
57% last year
57% 5-year average

Alfalfa hay 4th cutting:
77% this week
64% last week
79% last year
80% 5-year average