NASS report notes high temp toll

According to a National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) report, temperature differentials across Washington were between 2 and 11 degrees above average for the week of July 9-15, with Pullman’s average air temperature listed at 67 degrees.

“All areas of the state reported hot and dry conditions: good for some crops, but bad for soil moisture,” the group said.

As a result, 47 percent of topsoil moisture and 37 percent of subsoil moisture across the state was listed as below adequate.

In spite of less-than-ideal conditions, Washington crops are largely healthy. According to the NASS report, all major Washington crops are listed as being in 98-100 percent “fair,” “good” or “excellent” condition.

For the week ending July 15, winter wheat harvest was reported as eight percent complete compared to a five-year average of nine percent for the same week.