Rippey: Winter Wheat Crop Looks Similar To 2020

When it comes to the latest winter wheat conditions across the country, USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey said there is reason to pause.

"This is probably the most concerning chart of the week, showing 44% of the crop rated as good to excellent, that is down 2% from a week ago," Rippey noted. "22% very poor to poor; that is up 2% from a week ago.  So a net decline in condition."

Rippey said this year's crop is very similar to 2020's numbers.

"A lot of the focus has been on six of the drought affected states.  That is Colorado, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas and Washington.  Now three of those states, Montana, Oregon and Texas all coming in this week tied for greatest amount of acreage rated very poor to poor."

"So significant concerns as we head into the cold season with a crop that is not very well established," Rippey continued. "It will need some help in terms of moisture and favorable spring growing conditions to overcome this rough start."

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