Crop progress report 08/25: Washington cooled off, received rain

From the National Agricultural Statistics Service There were 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork in Washington, down from 7 days the previous week. Washington experienced cooler than average temperatures for this time of year, with the state also receiving rain. Columbia and Walla Walla counties reported that all winter wheat was harvested with favorable yields. The spring crops were only in fair condition because they did not get enough water. Yakima County reported that the severity of wildfires and air quality was much better this week. Vegetable harvest was at its peak, with sweet corn, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, summer squashes, and melons available in roadside stands throughout the county. Harvest crews brought in peaches, nectarines, plums, and prunes. Apple harvest started in earnest with the earlier maturing varieties. Growers laid down color-up products on orchard floors. Bartlett pear harvest started as well. Hop cones were forming and turned a light green color. Small grain harvest was almost done in most areas of Pend Oreille and Spokane counties. Preparations for fall planting began for many producers. Douglas County reported thunderstorms, which helped improve moisture conditions. Producers started seeding winter wheat.

Washington crop progress:

Winter wheat harvested: 95% this week 85% last week 92% last year 88% 5-year average Winter wheat planted: 8% this week 0% last week 6% last year 7% 5-year average Spring wheat harvested: 75% this week 52% last week 71% last year 62% 5-year average Barley harvested: 76% this week 59% last week 72% last year 65% 5-year average Dry edible peas harvested: 70% this week 54% last week 57% last year 5658% 5-year average Alfalfa hay 3rd cutting: 77% this week 50% last week 71% last year 63% 5-year average Alfalfa hay 4th cutting: 23% this week 11% last week 22% last year NA 5-year average