Despite precipitation events and cooler temperatures early in the week, spring planting and fieldwork made substantial gains last week, according to the Mountain Region Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA.

Northeastern and east central county reporters noted early week moisture kept producers out of the field. Snow was received in some localities. A reporter noted most crops looked good, but producers of non-irrigated crops and those with rangeland felt more moisture was needed going forward.

In the southwestern district, snowpack ratings remained above last year. Portions of southernmost counties remained the only counties in the district rated as abnormally dry to experiencing moderate drought, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report.

In the San Luis Valley, a reporter noted cattle producers experienced more cows than normal losing their calf, but the reason was not identified. Lambing was reportedly progressing well. Spring barley planting started to slow down and potato producers made significant progress planting last week. Hay supplies were noted as a little tight.

Southeastern counties received rain last week, slowing progress of corn planting. A reporter mentioned limited hay was being cut and producers were taking action against weed pressure in the crop.

Statewide, winter wheat condition was rated 73 percent good to excellent, compared to 53 percent rated good to excellent last year.

As of May 6, 2019, snowpack in Colorado was 132 percent measured as percent of median snowfall. The Southwest and San Luis Valley were 176 and 139 percent, respectively.

Stored feed supplies were rated 7 percent very short, 16 percent short, 74 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus.

Sheep death loss was 95 percent average and 5 percent light.

Cattle death loss was 7 percent heavy, 81 percent average, and 12 percent light.