The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its January 2026 Crop Progress report, detailing a month marked by extreme cold, drought, and uneven precipitation across many states. These conditions have influenced crop development, livestock health, and fieldwork activities, presenting ongoing challenges for producers as they prepare for the growing season.
Cold weather and drought impact crops and livestock
January saw below-average temperatures in many regions, with states like Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee experiencing prolonged cold spells that stressed fall-seeded crops and livestock. Alabama reported extreme cold and localized snow and ice, with nearly half the state under moderate drought by month’s end, down from 87% at the start of January. Despite the cold, major crop damage was limited, though strawberries required extended protection and hay supplies tightened in drought-affected counties.
Georgia faced severe drought conditions covering 59% of the state, with freezing temperatures and winter storms slowing winter wheat and cover crop growth. Producers fed dwindling hay supplies to livestock struggling with dry and freezing conditions. Tennessee endured a severe winter storm with snow and freezing temperatures that stressed livestock and depleted hay stocks, while farmers prepared for the spring growing season amid concerns about freeze damage to wheat.
Drought persists in western and southern states
Arizona reported mixed precipitation but continued drought, with 68% of pasture and range rated poor to very poor. Ranchers faced limited vegetation and herd downsizing, relying on supplemental feed and water. New Mexico saw severe drought affecting nearly half the state, with winter wheat and pastures showing signs of drought stress. Texas experienced a winter storm late in the month, halting cotton harvest and damaging cold-sensitive vegetables, while supplemental feeding of livestock continued.
Montana and Wyoming reported significant drought conditions, with large percentages of topsoil and subsoil moisture rated very short or short. Montana’s winter wheat showed moderate freeze and drought damage, and pasture conditions remained poor to very poor in many areas. Wyoming producers expressed concern over diminished snowpack and dry conditions impacting water resources.
Northern and Midwestern states face cold and moisture challenges
Illinois and Indiana reported below-normal precipitation and cold temperatures, with winter wheat conditions mostly good but some concerns about cold stress. Iowa experienced dry soil and inconsistent snow cover, with fertilizer applications proceeding when possible. Minnesota’s temperatures were well below average in the latter half of January, with limited snow cover raising concerns about moisture availability for spring planting.
Nebraska faced very short topsoil and subsoil moisture, with winter wheat rated mostly fair to poor. South Dakota reported similar moisture shortages, though winter wheat condition remained largely fair to good. North Dakota’s winter wheat condition was stable, with adequate moisture and good livestock conditions reported.
Fieldwork and livestock management amid weather challenges
California experienced dry weather for much of January, slowing some harvests but benefiting pasture growth. Winter wheat and forage crops were well established, and livestock calving progressed well. Oregon saw above-normal temperatures but below-normal snowpack, with pasture growth resuming early and calving conditions favorable.
In the eastern states, Pennsylvania and New Jersey faced cold temperatures and snow that limited fieldwork, while Maryland and Virginia reported challenges in livestock feeding and pasture conditions due to freezing weather. Florida’s drought worsened, with widespread freezes stressing livestock and damaging fruit and vegetable crops.
The January report highlights the critical role of moisture availability, temperature fluctuations, and drought in shaping crop and livestock conditions nationwide. Producers continue to adapt by increasing supplemental feeding, protecting sensitive crops, and adjusting fieldwork schedules. The USDA’s ongoing monitoring provides essential insights to support agricultural planning and response as the 2026 growing season approaches.
