Source: USDA'S NASS NC FIELD OFFICE, 2/3/14

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GENERAL: There were 1.5 days suitable for field work for the week ending February 2nd compared to 2.6 for the week ending December 29th. Statewide soil moisture levels were rated at 3% short, 57% adequate and 40% surplus. During the past week much of the Piedmont and Coastal areas received snowfall. The weather pattern also brought in abnormally cold, bitter temperatures causing concerns with freeze damage.

For the month of January most of the state received over 2 inches of precipitation with some areas recording over 4 inches. The average temperatures for the month were below normal with some areas recording lows in the single digits or below zero. The cold temperatures along with wind chill factors have created harsh conditions during the month. Small grain conditions for wheat, barley and oats are currently rated fair to good.

Most farmers are in a holding pattern now, waiting for the land to dry out and warmer temperatures before they can get back outside and work in the fields.

CROP PROGRESS PERCENT – WITH COMPARISONS
This week      Last Week        Last Year     5-Year Avg.
There is no data to report.

CROP CONDITION PERCENT
           VP P F G EX
Barley 0 4 54 35 7
Oats 0 6 34 53 7
Wheat 0 10 33 52 5
Pasture 11 28 41 18 2
VP = Very Poor P = Poor F = Fair G = Good EX = Excellent

SOIL MOISTURE PERCENT
         VS ST A SS
State 0 3 57 40
Mountain Region 0 6 66 28
Piedmont Region 0 3 70 27
Coastal Plain Region 0 0 40 60
VS= Very Short ST = Short A = Adequate SS = Surplus