As reported by NASS on June 13, 2011

WHEAT HARVEST TAKES OFF AS HIGH TEMPS PERSIST

Spurred on by another week of hot, dry conditions, Tennessee’s wheat farmers were able to harvest well over a third of the crop last week. Producers have harvested more of the winter wheat crop by this time of year than any other spring since 2006. Warmer than average temperatures coupled with a lack of widespread rainfall could pose a threat to other crops but by week’s end the corn, cotton, and soybean crops were rated in mostly fair to good condition. Although some areas were reported to be very dry for this time of year, most of the state’s pastureland was rated in fair to good condition. Planting of double-cropped soybeans began last week following wheat harvest. Other farm activities last week included cutting hay, transplanting tobacco, and side-dressing crops.

There were 7 days suitable for fieldwork across the state. Topsoil moisture levels were rated 15 percent very short, 38 percent short, 45 percent adequate and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were rated 6 percent very short, 29 percent short, 62 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus. Temperatures averaged 6 to 8 degrees above normal across the state. Precipitation levels were below normal as most areas experience only scattered rainfall.