Most areas throughout Oklahoma received scattered showers between March 20 and 26, but the rain was not enough to improve soil moisture conditions, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Rainfall totals averaged 1.13 inches.
The March 21 U.S. Drought Monitor Report said drought conditions were rated 66% abnormally dry to exceptional drought, down 21 points from last year. Additionally, 59% of the state fell in the moderate to exceptional drought categories, down 18 points from the previous year.
Statewide temperatures averaged in the 50s. Topsoil moisture conditions were rated adequate to short. Subsoil moisture conditions were rated very short to adequate.
Here’s a look at how crops performed for the week of March 20-26:
Small grains: Winter wheat jointing reached 26%, up 11 points from the previous year but down seven points from normal.
Rye jointing reached 9%, up one point from the previous year but down 13 points from normal.
Oats jointing reached 26%, up 19 points from the previous year and 16 points from normal.
Pasture and livestock: Pasture and range condition was rated at 61% very poor to fair. Livestock condition was rated at 81% fair to good.