South Dakota spring wheat harvest lags behind average; cooler than normal temperatures persist

The spring wheat harvest in South Dakota continued to lag far behind the five-year average as below-normal temperatures persisted throughout the state.

The U.S. Agriculture Department says in its weekly report that spring wheat harvested was reported at 11 percent, compared to last year's 19 percent and the average of 55 percent.

Winter wheat harvested was at 75 percent, ahead of last year's pace but behind the five-year average of 88 percent.

Topsoil moisture conditions rated 23 percent short and 77 percent adequate or surplus. Scattered rain showers were reported across the state for the week.

Pasture and range conditions were rated 10 percent poor, 23 percent fair, 54 percent good and 13 percent excellent.