Colorado: Drought stress becoming a critical concern

Colorado remained very warm and dry for the week ending Oct. 23, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Mountain Regional Field Office, Colorado. A few northern and western counties reported isolated moisture midweek, but drought stress is becoming a critical concern in areas where moisture has not been received in earnest the past few months. Reporters noted high winds in areas were problematic for winter wheat stands, soil moisture conditions, and increased fire danger. Hot and dry conditions aided late spring crop maturity and harvest is in full swing. Many crops are at or ahead of the average for harvest. Potato harvest in the San Luis Valley is very close to completion. Stored feed supplies were rated 2 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 31 percent surplus. (Source: High Plains Journal)