(SPRINGFIELD) In yesterday’s USDA Illinois Crop Progress Report for March, the average temperature was 46.9 degrees around the state, 6.1 degrees above normal. The statewide average precipitation was 2.86 inches in March, 0.25 inches below normal. As of this past Sunday, topsoil moisture supply was rated 34% short to very short, 54% adequate, and 12% surplus. The subsoil moisture supply was rated 47% short to very short, 42% adequate, and 11% surplus. The statewide winter wheat condition was rated 1% poor, 30% fair, 61% good, and 8% excellent. Up until the weekend rain, some farmers had been applying anhydrous ammonia and fertilizer, plus spraying, spring tillage, and some planting in selected areas.
