Fieldwork Just Starting in South Dakota

Chester, South Dakota farmer Keith Alverson has about 20 percent of his corn crop in the ground. “We’re likely going to start beans this weekend,” he says. “We’ve had some rain the last few evenings. It’s delayed starting anything. People are in various states of starting in the area. I’ve seen planters sitting in the yards ready to go and other farmers are digging in the field. Just getting started.” It was an abnormally cold April. However, Alverson says moisture conditions are good in the area. Farmers just need two days in a row of sunshine. “I don’t think anyone is too nervous yet. We typically like to start around April 25 so we’re a bit late, but everyone’s been equipped the last few years to really get in and get a lot done.”