Corn and soybean crops in South Dakota maturing quickly, but not in good condition

This week’s (Sept. 7, 2021) USDA National Ag Statistics Service crop progress report has South Dakota at the top of a list– for crops being in bad shape.

USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey says despite rains in the past week or so, South Dakota is one of the states where the corn and soybean crops conditions are currently among the worst in the country.

Rippey says despite the poor condition, South Dakota’s corn crop is maturing ahead of the five year average pace.

Rippey says the drought is responsible for pushing the corn crop to mature more quickly than normal.

Pasture and range conditions in South Dakota rated 37% very poor, 41% poor, 17% fair, 5% good and 0% excellent.