Colorado Crop Progress and Condition Report, Week Ending October 18, 2020

Photo taken in Colorado, United States

AGRICULTURAL SUMMARY:

Harvest continued ahead of average for most crops last week, according to the Mountain Region Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA.

Conditions remained very dry. According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report, the entire state was experiencing moderate to exceptional drought conditions. Over 59 percent of the state was rated in extreme to exceptional drought. Extreme wildfire activity due to warm temperatures and wind continued in northwestern counties, although small amounts of precipitation were received.

In northeastern counties, corn for grain harvest was fully underway. Sugarbeet harvest continued and the fourth cutting of alfalfa neared completion. Winter wheat seeding also continued but emergence in areas was mixed due to very dry conditions.

Livestock producers continued to provide supplemental feed in response to drought and feed supplies were limited. In east central counties, a prior high wind event caused newly seeded wheat fields to blow severely. A county report noted producers expect to chisel fields in response. No moisture was received last week.

Sorghum harvest was also underway. Harvest of other non-irrigated spring crops such as sunflowers and corn was limited in areas due to damage from extreme drought. In southwestern counties, dry bean harvest was virtually complete and the forth cutting of alfalfa continued.

Exceptional drought conditions remained with little relief. Southeastern counties experienced freezing temperatures and windy weather last week.

A county report noted calves were being marketed earlier than normal due to lack of available native grass. Statewide, stored feed supplies were rated 11 percent very short, 27 percent short, 57 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Sheep death loss was 66 percent average and 34 percent light. Cattle death loss was 81 percent average and 19 percent light.