SIOUX FALLS (AP) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture says cool weather and melting snow kept fields too wet for any planting last week and hampered ranchers trying to keep newborn livestock warm and dry.
In a weekly report, the USDA says cooler temperatures slowed the snowmelt in western South Dakota but that most of the snow was gone by Sunday except for areas in the Black Hills.
Virtually the entire state reports adequate or surplus soil moisture, with flooded fields in areas along the James River.
In Ziebach County, officials say weather conditions have dealt a significant blow to newborn calves, while other areas also report high death losses of calves and lambs.
Soil temperatures generally held steady in the 30s statewide.
Send us your community news, events, letters to the editor and other suggestions. Now, you can submit birth, wedding and engagement announcements online too!
