USDA’s first Crop Progress report of the season shows the 2026 growing season is just getting started across Nebraska and Kansas, but very dry soil conditions are already shaping early‑season concerns.
In Nebraska, corn and sorghum planting have not yet begun, which is still normal for early April. Producers had some opportunity for fieldwork last week, with 4.8 days suitable statewide, slightly better than this time last year. However, soil moisture remains extremely limited, with 84 percent of topsoil rated short to very short and 85 percent of subsoil also short to very short. Those dry conditions could quickly become more impactful once planting activity increases.
Winter wheat in Nebraska continues to struggle, with just 19 percent rated good to excellent, while 43 percent is rated poor to very poor. Much of the crop remains dormant, but limited moisture and ongoing dry weather are raising concerns as the crop approaches more active growth stages later this spring.
In Kansas, early corn planting has begun, with 5 percent complete, slightly ahead of the five‑year average. Sorghum planting has not yet started, which is expected this early in the season. Kansas producers reported six days suitable for fieldwork, helping push some early progress, but moisture concerns persist, with 62 percent of topsoil rated short to very short.
Kansas winter wheat condition remains mixed. Thirty‑eight percent of the crop is rated fair, while 38 percent is rated good to excellent, and 24 percent is rated poor to very poor, reflecting ongoing drought stress in parts of the state.
Overall, planting activity remains limited across the region, and the lack of spring moisture is the dominant story. Producers across Nebraska and Kansas will be watching closely for meaningful precipitation as corn and sorghum planting windows approach and winter wheat enters key development stages.
