In some cases, less than half their normal precipitation. The primary concern reported by High Plains producers is the dwindling supply of hay and forage. The lack of precipitation last summer manifested itself in fewer cuttings of hay and lower quality of the hay that was produced. The hay and forage shortages are reflected in higher prices. In many states supplemental feeding of livestock has been necessary.
Few states report soil moisture during the winter months.
However, of the four that did report on their moisture contents, Iowa, Kansas, and Wyoming have improved to mostly adequate to short. Winter wheat is showing the lasting effects of relatively poor soil moisture conditions. Most winter wheat producing states are reporting crop condition as mostly fair to good. Kansas, Montana, and Wyoming have reported some wind damage, though not extensive. Montana, northern Wyoming, and northwestern South Dakota producers have expressed concern over a lack of snow cover.