Combines started rolling in southern Kansas over the past few days after barely getting started last week. Harvest started earlier than normal because the wheat has matured early and farmers were trying to beat incoming storms. Overall, yields are better than expected in the area. The first quarter of the year was very dry, but recent rainfall has helped and this year’s crop is looking to be much better than last year’s dismal crop. Initial reports of test weights are 62 to 63 pounds per bushel, and proteins are averaging 11 to 12 percent.
Wheat crop conditions in Kansas as of June 2nd were 34% poor to very poor, 32% fair and 34% good to excellent. Mature was 25%, well ahead of 1% both last year and average.
The USDA estimated the crop at 267.9 million bushels in its May 1st forecast. Their June estimate will be issued next week. Last year’s Kansas wheat harvest resulted in 201.25 million bushels, with abandonment at 29%, the highest since 1951. Harvest was expected to progress this past weekend, although scattered rains, thunderstorms, wind and hail hit some areas of the state.
