As reported by NASS on September 12, 2011

 EAST AND MIDDLE TENNESSEE SOAKED; AREAS OF WEST STILL DRY

West Tennessee received only scattered showers last week, leaving several areas still very dry. In other regions, remnants of tropical storm Lee brought heavy rainfall, thus greatly benefiting crops and pastures. Pasture conditions improved significantly, as 64 percent of pastures are rated in fair-to-good condition as compared to 52 percent a week ago. Harvesting activities slowed in many areas but picked-up over the weekend. Despite the rain, it was a busy week for farmers as they continued harvesting corn, milo, and tobacco, chopping silage, cutting hay, defoliating cotton and fall seeding.

There were 4 days suitable for fieldwork across the state. Topsoil moisture levels were rated 10 percent very short, 23 percent short, 57 percent adequate and 10 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels were rated 10 percent very short, 27 percent short, 60 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus. Temperatures across Tennessee last week averaged 6 to 9 degrees below normal. Rainfall was below normal in West Tennessee and well above normal in the remainder of the state.