Warm temperatures coupled with varied moisture totals proved challenging for producers, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service.
Temperatures were as many as 12 degrees or more above normal in portions of the northeast according to data from the High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC), precipitation was varied.
Much of the State received moisture levels at or above normal, also according to the HPRCC.
Some areas received rainfall totaling 4 inches or more.
In other areas, precipitation levels were below normal.
Changes in drought conditions were minimal according to the United States Drought Monitor report published on June 8, 2023.
The amount of land rated drought-free stood at 51.4 percent, up slightly from 50.1 percent the previous week.
Abnormal dryness was found in 30.2 percent of Montana, down from 30.3 percent last week.
Moderate drought was found in 14.9 percent of the State, down from 16.9 percent on the previous report.
Severe drought increased slightly to 3.5 percent, up 0.8 percentage points.
Ranges improved in areas that received significant rainfall, but field activities became difficult.
Seeding and hay harvest were delayed in some counties due to the wet conditions.
Fungal disease and crop stress remained issues in areas that received excessive moisture.
Subsoil moisture, however, was still insufficient in Roosevelt County.
Widespread grasshopper infestations were ongoing concerns.
