Jan. 18, 2007

COLLEGE STATION – Severe winter weather across much of Texas has been a factor in the reduced number of postings in this week's crop and weather report. As more arrive, they will be added to next week's report.

PANHANDLE: Temperatures were above average early in the week before plunging below normal by week's end. Sleet, freezing rain, light snow and fog accompanied the cold temperatures. Field activities, including the remaining cotton harvest, have stopped until warmer and drier conditions return. Gins continue to be active. Wheat has benefitted from the moisture. Greenbug infestations of small-grain fields are increasing in southern portions of the area, but low temperatures will slow reproduction. Range conditions are rated from very poor to good with most areas in the middle. Cattle are in fair to good condition, but the cold, sleet, freezing rain and light snow are causing considerable stress. Supplemental feeding continues.

SOUTH PLAINS: Severe winter weather in the area brought temperatures in the teens. Ice and snow made travel extremely dangerous. This arctic blast brought field work to a halt and stressed area livestock. Wheat has progressed well due to the recent moisture. Pastures and ranges are in poor to fair condition. Supplemental feeding continues.

ROLLING PLAINS: Temperatures dipped into the teens, and freezing rain, sleet and snow came to the area at week's end. Heavy hay and feed supplements are being given to cattle and horses. Fall cattle work has been completed; some producers have reduced herds instead of supplementally feeding them. Livestock are in fair to good condition. Cotton harvest is almost complete. Cotton gins are making good progress. Greenbugs continue to be a problem in wheat, with more acreage being sprayed every day. Recent rains should add growth to the wheat and help it outgrow some greenbug pressure.

FAR WEST: Soil moisture ranges from very short to adequate, and crops such as winter wheat and oats, and native pastures reflect the moisture conditions. Supplemental feeding of livestock continues.

WEST CENTRAL: Temperatures were unseasonably warm at the beginning of the week but freezing at week's end. Some rain has been reported in a few areas. Below freezing temperatures with some anticipated rainfall is expected for the next seven days. Small grains and pastures are showing some good growth due to recent rains. Producers continue to strip what little cotton is left, weather conditions permitting. Livestock are in fair to good condition. Supplemental feeding continues due to cold conditions. Hay is in big demand and in short supply. Hard rains are needed is some areas to fill empty stock tanks.

SOUTH: Most of the region had adequate soil moisture conditions with cool nights and mild days last week. Temperatures are lower than normal but no major freeze damage has been reported yet. Harvesting of winter vegetables, citrus and sugarcane is still under way. Farmers are preparing land for spring planting. Range conditions have benefitted from recent rains.