Crop progress report 10/08: Harvesters were going full tilt in Washington

From NASS There were 6.7 days suitable for field work last week. Pasture and range conditions were reported at 26 percent very poor, 33 percent poor, 30 percent fair and 11 percent good. A low temperature of 25 degrees F was reported in the northeast region, while a high temperature of 78 degrees F was reported in the southeast region. Statewide temperature differentials ranged from 6 degrees below normal to 1 degree above normal. In the western region, forage was still pretty poor quality. Corn harvest was in full swing, and the final cutting of grass hay was harvested. Corn silage land was tilled for replanting. Beef producers continued supplemental feeding. Animals on irrigated pastures were in good shape. Vegetable and fruit harvests continued. Some barley fields were still to be harvested. U-pick pumpkin farms were open and busy. In the central region, pear producers suffered quality issues due to the long hot summer days, which caused cork. Apple harvest continued, and the quality looked good. The winter wheat crop had good moisture initially, however extended dry conditions stressed the plants. The 2018 canola crop was also stressed by hot weather at seeding time. Wine grape harvest continued in the Columbia River Gorge. Cattle looked good and were moved off ranges and settled into winter pastures. Fruits and vegetables were available at roadside stands. Buckwheat was being swathed. Concord grapes were nearing harvest. Overall, fall work was underway, along with orchard cleanup. Corn and potato harvests were commencing. Rain was still needed for fall seeding to continue.

Washington crop progress:

Winter wheat planted: 77% this week 63% last week 80% last year 77% 5-year average Winter wheat emerged: 53% this week 42% last week 100% last year 58% 5-year average Alfalfa hay 4th cutting: 86% this week 80% last week 99% last year 74% 5-year average Alfalfa hay 5th cutting: 49% this week 29% last week 47% last year NA 5-year average