The first adult sunflower beetles were observed at the North Central Research Extension Center in Minot. Reports have also been received from the Carrington area as well. The adult sunflower beetle overwinters in last year's sunflower fields, and feeds on the volunteer sunflowers until the newly planted sunflower plants emerge. Early instars of the two-stripped grasshopper and other species can be found in ditches and fields now. The ND Ag Weather Network weather stations in this region recorded no rain at Dazey to 0.21 inches at Bismarck during May 19 to 25.
Most counties continue to have excessive soil moisture in low-lying areas.
Winter grain, alfalfa and pastures generally are in good condition. Planting operations have resumed during the last 5 to 10 days. Small grain seeding is 60 percent or more completed throughout the region. Some canola, corn and flax planting continues. Dry bean, soybean and sunflower planting also has started.