Drought conditions continue to take a toll on crops across the region.
This week, only 22% of major crops are rated in good to excellent condition—down from 28% just last week.
Soil moisture levels remain critically low, with surface and sub-surface ratings well below the five-year averages.
Pasture and hay growth are also struggling, and rising grasshopper populations are compounding the pressure.
Several municipalities have now declared agricultural disasters as farmers face mounting challenges in the fields.
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
