Drought conditions are creating significant differences in crop prospects across northeast North Dakota. Dale Zahradka says barley has been a bright spot, with about one-third of his crop harvested and yields and quality looking good. A three-inch rain at the end of June has left some lower areas green, creating challenges with green straw in some straight-cut barley fields. However, Zahradka says the crop has produced good bushels and quality. “We’re very fortunate and happy with that because it looks like some of these later crops could be a disappointment if Mother Nature doesn’t improve here pretty soon.” Zahradka farms at Lankin, North Dakota.
