The state welcomed much-needed rainfall between April 24 and 30.
Rainfall totals in Oklahoma averaged 1.89 inches, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.
The April 25 U.S. Drought Monitor Report said drought conditions were rated 65% abnormally dry to exceptional drought, down 12 points from last year. Additionally, 54% of the state was in the moderate to exceptional drought categories, down 11 points from the previous year.
Statewide temperatures averaged in the low to mid-50s. Topsoil moisture conditions were rated adequate to short, and subsoil moisture conditions were rated very short to adequate.
Here’s a look at crop status for the week of April 24-30, according to NASS:
Small grains: Wheat continued to be cut for hay due to little grain development.
Winter wheat jointing reached 92%, up eight points from the previous year. Winter wheat headed reached 43%, up six points from the previous year but down five points from normal.
Canola blooming reached 55%, down five points from the previous year and 19 points from normal.
Rye jointing reached 88%, up two points from the previous year but down two points from normal. Rye headed reached 53%.
Oats jointing reached 63%, up nine points from the previous year and 11 points from normal. Oats headed reached 25%.
Row crops: While the rainfall might be too late for small grains, it will help provide needed moisture for row crops.
Corn planted reached 37%, up six points from the previous year and three points from normal. Corn emerged reached 21%,up 15 points from the previous year and 10 points from normal.
Sorghum planted reached 16%, up 13 points from the previous year and 10 points from normal.
Soybeans planted reached 5%, down 10 points from the previous year and four points from normal.
the previous year and up 10 points from normal.
Pasture and livestock: Pasture and range condition was rated at 62% very poor to fair. Livestock condition was rated at 77% fair to good.