Small grains needed more moisture in Central Texas
2/21/2025 12:00:00 AM
CATEGORIES:
Agriculture
Plants & Wildlife
Water Supply & Quality
AFFECTED AREAS:
Bell County, TX
Bosque County, TX
Comanche County, TX
Coryell County, TX
Eastland County, TX
Ellis County, TX
Erath County, TX
Falls County, TX
Freestone County, TX
Hamilton County, TX
Hill County, TX
Hood County, TX
Johnson County, TX
Leon County, TX
Limestone County, TX
McLennan County, TX
Milam County, TX
Navarro County, TX
Robertson County, TX
Somervell County, TX
Williamson County, TX
Start Date: 2/4/2025
- End Date: 2/19/2025
Central Texas received a widespread rainfall of 0.5-2 inches, which improved topsoil moisture conditions. The district experienced a significant drop in temperatures due to a strong cold front dropping temperatures into the mid- to upper 30s, with wind chills making it feel even colder. More cold fronts were expected, potentially bringing even colder air and a widespread freeze. These fluctuating temperatures and precipitation patterns could impact winter wheat and oat crops, which were heading out. The cold snaps may slow crop development and affect overall yield potential. Some limited corn planting had begun, but overall planting was later than normal. Additionally, pasture and range conditions were mostly poor to fair. Producers were monitoring forage availability and considering supplemental feeding strategies. Low stock tank levels and stream flows were reflective of little runoff.
AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Feb 19, 2025
Central Texas received heavy to scattered rainfall with amounts ranging from 0.5 to 5 inches, and many areas received 1-3 inches of rainfall. The last two weeks brought chill hour numbers closer to average, but all crops could still use more chill hours. Wheat, oats and small grains benefited from the moisture, but many fields were struggling. Native pastures were holding, but cool-season grasses looked stressed. Some tanks filled due to rainfall. The cattle market was up, and the sheep and goat market remained steady. Supplemental feeding continued for livestock.
AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Feb 4, 2025
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