Heat Helping U.S. Beans Develop

WASHINGTON - Aug 4/14 - SNS -- Hot and dry weather in much of the growing area us helping hasten development of dry edible bean crops in the United States, judging from the latest state level crop progress reports from USDA NASS reporters.

Colorado saw widespread precipitation across the state last week, halting field operations when it occurred. Reporters noted precipitation had a significant, positive effect on stressed dryland crops and rangeland. Some localized flooding incidents were reported in the western district. Producers in the San Luis Valley experienced continued wet conditions and damaging hail. Reporters indicated some damage to crops was sustained as a result. So far, 75% of the dry bean crop was flowered, compared with 60 percent last year and 63 percent on average.

In Michigan, 77% of the edible bean crop is now in bloom, compared to 68% at this time last year and the recent average of 73%. Although sporadic storms and hail damage were reported in the central part of the state, cool and dry weather in most regions has been a challenge to crop development while providing favorable conditions for wheat and hay harvest.

In Minnesota, 85% of the dry bean crop is now in bloom and 46% are setting pods. Last year, 83% of the crop was in bloom and 37% of fields were setting pods. Crop development was helped by a week of warm and dry weather.