Late week storms brought needed moisture to a few areas last week, according to the Mountain Region Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Despite moisture, overall conditions remained dry and winter wheat continued to experience a decline in condition, with 28 percent rated good to excellent compared to 74 percent good to excellent last year and 58 percent good to excellent on average.

Northeastern counties received isolated moisture and warmer temperatures were beneficial for crop growth and emergence, specifically for corn. Isolated and damaging hail was reported near the localities of Fort Lupton and Sterling. Producers in the area continued to seed spring crops and reports noted first cutting of alfalfa was expected to begin soon. Winter wheat in the district benefited from received moisture, but in areas that remained dry, concerns were noted for the future of the crop.

East central counties received good moisture in areas last week although warm and windy conditions were also noted. More moisture is greatly needed, and pasture growth continued to be limited.

In the San Luis Valley, another dry week was reported. Potato planting continued to advance quickly, and conditions were ideal for irrigated crop growth and emergence. Rangeland in the area was feeling the effects of exceptionally dry conditions. Livestock producers continued to provide supplemental feed and supplies were a little short.

In southeastern counties, isolated moisture was received and first cutting of alfalfa began. Irrigation water supplies were noted as slow.

As of May 15, 2020, snowpack in Colorado was 66 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. The Southwest and San Luis Valley were 28 percent and 22 percent, respectively.

Stored feed supplies were rated 4 percent very short, 15 percent short, 79 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus.

Sheep death loss was 42 percent average and 58 percent light.

Cattle death loss was 70 percent average and 30 percent light.