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Weather takes toll on cropsDry conditions along with high winds brought major concerns among Wheat growers in the state during the week ending April 16, and no districts received precipitation except a small trace in the west central district, according to the Oklahoma Agricultural Statistics Service, April 17. High temperatures had continued to dry topsoil moisture, and crops began to show signs of stress. Eighty-six percent of the topsoil moisture and ninety percent of the subsoil moisture was in the very short to short range. There were 6.6 days suitable for field work. The above normal temperatures and high winds were taking a toll on small grain crops last week. Small grains were limited in growth and development due to lack of moisture. The Wheat condition declined slightly from last week. Many districts reported shortness of Wheat height. Wheat growers were hoping to receive more rainfall to encourage better Wheat flowering. Insurance adjusters continued to inspect Wheat fields in several localities to try and determine yield-per-acre loss caused by the extensive drought damage. Green bug infestations were spotted in most areas. Wheat heading continued across the State. Wheat jointing was unchanged from this time last year at 92 percent. Rye jointing was at 48 percent, 10 points above the five-year average. Oat jointing, at 32 percent, was 8 points below last year and 11 points below the five-year average. Seedbed preparations for corn, soybeans and cotton were over 50 percent complete. Corn planted was at 36 percent, unchanged from last year, but 2 points ahead of the five-year average. Sorghum and soybean plantings were at 8 and 10 percent, respectively. Cotton and peanut plantings were just underway. Pasture and range conditions were mostly in fair condition. The hot weather and high winds limited pasture growth. Ponds were drying and hay supplies were at a minimum. Livestock conditions remained mostly poor-to-fair. Marketings were mostly average. Livestock insect activities were none to light while some districts continued to report lice, ticks and flies. Prices for feeder steers less than 800 pounds averaged $113.49 per cwt. Prices for feeder heifers less than 800 pounds averaged $101.08 per cwt. Date: 4/20/06
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