Local Extension crop condition update through July 3

Moisture continues to be a challenge for Red Willow County, currently almost the entire county is in a D3 drought (Extreme Drought). Rainfall over the past week totaled about 1.3 inches, bringing the year-to-date total to roughly six inches. Soil moisture levels stand at 22% at two inches, 26% at four inches, 21% at eight inches and 20% at 40 inches.

Soil temperatures ranged from a weekly minimum of 70 degrees to a maximum of 84 degrees, averaging 79.8 degrees. Daily high air temperatures averaged 86°F during the reporting period, ranging from 70°F to 97°F, while overnight lows ranged from 60°F to 71°F.

Corn across the area is generally in the V5 to V8 growth stages and is rated fair to good overall. While many fields look promising, some uneven stands are evident, and dryland corn is beginning to show signs of moisture stress. Current prices are sitting around $3.78 per bushel.

Soybeans are at approximately the V5 stage and rated fair to good. Currently trading near $10.47 per bushel.

With corn and sorghum soon entering their reproductive stages, timely rainfall will be critical to help maximize yield potential. Grain sorghum is at the 3-leaf stage and looks good so far, with prices around $3.13 per bushel.

Winter wheat harvest has started in Southwest Nebraska. As harvest activity increases, motorists are reminded to use caution and be patient when encountering large farm equipment traveling on area roads. Yields are expected to be below average, with many estimating around 30 bushels per acre.

Scouting reports show western bean cutworm activity with 356 moths in the McCook trap on Monday, June 29. The phenology of the corn crop will likely lead to higher larval mortality than usual as the larvae need tassel to develop. However please continue to monitor and scout for egg masses. If producers would like access to the trapping network website, please contact Ruby. In this area there have not been any reports of diseases yet.

This report reflects general crop and field conditions across Southwest Nebraska. Individual field conditions may vary. For questions about crop production, insect pests, or field diagnostics, contact Ruby Collins at the local Nebraska Extension office.