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Cold temps, dry conditions slowed wheat progressMontana Most of the state received scattered light precipitation during the week ending May 11, while the southeast district had above normal moisture, according to the National Agricultural Statistics service, Montana Field Office, May 12. Highs were mostly in the 60s to 70s, and lows were mostly in the 20s to 30s. Glendive, Roundup, Hardin, and Huntley all reached 78 degrees. Cascade had the low temperature of 19 degrees. Topsoil moisture adequate and surplus is 59 percent, above last week's 46 percent, but below last year's 91 percent and the five-year average of 68 percent. Subsoil moisture adequate and surplus is 28 percent, above last week's 23 percent, but below last year's 74 percent and the five-year average of 50 percent. Both topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions continue to improve. The number of days suitable for field work was 4.2 days. The weather outlook for May 19 to 25 is for below normal temperatures and above normal precipitation east of the continental divide and for below normal temperatures and near normal precipitation west of the divide. Normal temperatures for this period in Montana are highs in the upper 50s to the upper 60s and lows in the upper 20s to the mid 40s. Cold temperatures and dry soil conditions this year have slowed the growth of winter wheat and delayed emergence of spring crops. All of the small grains have less emerged this year than last year. Overall, winter wheat condition has declined. Winter wheat good to excellent is 32 percent, below last week's 37 percent, last year's 75 percent, and the five-year average of 61 percent. A high percentage of livestock are receiving supplemental feed compared to last year and the five-year average. Producers in the central and north central districts are still feeding due to lack of spring grass. Grass has not grown due to cold and dry conditions. Hay stocks are limited, and some ranchers are moving livestock to summer ranges even if the pastures haven't seen spring growth. Stockwater supplies are also a concern. 5/19/08 Date: 5/14/08 Advertisement
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