Cold, Lack of Snow, Affects North Dakota Crops

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — The lack of snow cover in North Dakota coupled with cold weather continues to be a concern for winter crops.

The Agriculture Department says in its latest crop report that only 64 percent of the state's winter wheat crop is in good to excellent condition.

Extreme cold in recent weeks also has caused concerns among ranchers doing early calving, though cattle and calf conditions are still rated 86 percent good to excellent. Sheep and lamb conditions are rated 80 percent good to excellent.

The report says hay and stock water supplies are in good shape in the state.