Strong winds and wildfire conditions were reported across the state between March 10 and 16, and rainfall totals in Oklahoma averaged 0.01 inches, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.
The March 11 U.S. Drought Monitor Report said drought conditions were rated 71% abnormally dry to exceptional drought, up 26 points from the previous year, according to the NASS. Additionally, 32% of the state w as in the moderate to exceptional drought categories, up 28 points from the previous year.
Statewide temperatures averaged in the lower 50s to lower 60s. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions were rated adequate to short, and there were 5.5 days suitable for fieldwork.
Here’s a look at how crops fared between March 10-16: Small grains: Winter wheat jointing reached 10%, up 10 points from the previous week but down five points from normal. Rye and oat progress was reported as slightly behind normal, with some fields progressing to the jointing stage Pasture and livestock: Pasture and range condition was rated at 73% good to fair. Livestock condition was rated at 84% good to fair.