Welcome Rain Helps Planted Cane, Wheat, Ryegrass
Topsoil moisture ratings improved somewhat in the latest Crop Progress and Condition Report from the National Ag Statistics Service, thanks to recent rains in many areas of Louisiana. Topsoil moisture supplies were 31 percent very short, 43 percent short, 26 percent adequate, and 0 percent surplus.
Comments from Cooperative Extension Service Parish Agents:
“Received about half inch of rain last week. Not enough to make much difference in the drought. Rain forecast again this week.” – Carol Pinnell -Alison, Franklin Parish
“Some rain has helped ryegrass pasture. Ranchers are beginning to feed hay to livestock. Cane harvest continues with good conditions.” – Andrew Granger, Vermilion Parish
“Received 1/4-1/2 inch rain last week across most of parish, welcomed but more is needed. Dry fall has provided for good fieldwork and harvest conditions. Sugarcane harvest is approx. 2/3 complete, continued reports of high sugar, low tonnage. Cattle producers have completed winter pasture planting and continue to feed hay, rainfall needed soon to salvage ryegrass grazing season.” – Stanley J Dutile, Lafayette Parish
“Low tonnage and dry conditions continue to accelerate the sugarcane harvest with an early end to grinding predicted for mid-December. Some crawfish are being harvested from early flooded ponds. Growers have had ample time to complete fieldwork and most fallow fields are in good condition heading into next growing season. A light crop of pecans of below average quality is being harvested. Drought conditions and cooler weather is creating good color change and maturity in the citrus crop but a sweet flavor is still lacking. Winter pastures need rain for development to occur.” – Stuart Gauthier, Saint Martin Parish
“Dry weather conditions continue allowing for sugarcane harvest to be efficient. At this rate harvest may be complete at some mills right after Christmas while some mills will be done in early January. The lack of rain is also concerning for cool season pastures and fall fruit and pecans. Crawfish ponds are flooded and will soon be fished.” – Blair Hebert, Iberia Parish