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Spring planting delayed

By Staff | Apr 21, 2009

As expected, spring planting is behind schedule due to saturated fields and flooded roads.

In fact, as of April 21 no crops had been seeded in the state, according to agriculture officials. On average, about 12 percent of the spring wheat crop has been planted by this time.

The statewide average for field work is anticipated to be May 2, according to surveys of county and state officials.

The good news is there is sufficient soil moisture, which will help the early stages of crop development.

The flooding conditions have also taken a heavy toll on livestock producers. According to state officials, more than 70,000 calves and 19,000 cattle have been lost due flooding and inclement weather this winter and spring. And producers are also worried whether there will be adequate hay supplies as a result of flooded pasture land.