Warmer, drier weather helps N. Dakota farmers

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) -- Warmer and drier weather across North Dakota last week allowed farmers to get the last of their crops planted.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says in its weekly crop report that there were 5 days suitable for fieldwork on average last week.

Spring wheat seeding is rated just 86 percent complete, trailing last year's 100 percent average. Spring wheat is 74 percent emerged, behind last year at 100 percent and the 92 percent average.

Durum wheat seeding is also behind at 88 percent complete. The crop is 76 percent emerged, behind last year at 100 percent and the average of 92 percent.

Pasture and range conditions are rated 0 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 11 percent fair, 60 percent good and 27 percent excellent.