Rain showers combined with below average temperatures slowed fieldwork during the week ending May 1, 2016, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. There were only 2.0 days suitable for fieldwork, though conditions in the northern and southeastern parts of the state allowed more opportunity for planting. Producers in a few areas were concerned about the effects of the cool and wet conditions on crop germination and emergence, though many others noted that the moisture received during the week was beneficial. Minnesota’s corn planting increased to 59 percent complete, 13 days ahead of the 5-year average, but 2 days behind last year. Five percent of the corn crop has emerged, 4 days ahead of average. Six percent of the soybean crop has been planted, which is equal to the average, but 4 days behind last year. Small grain seeding continues to be well ahead of average, nearing completion in the west central and southwestern parts of the state. Spring wheat planting was 63 percent complete, 16 days ahead of average, but 13 days behind last year. Twenty-seven percent of the spring wheat crop had emerged, 6 days ahead of average, but 4 days behind last year. Eighty-two percent of the oat acreage had been planted, with 53 percent emerged, over 2 weeks ahead of the average. The barley crop was 46 percent planted and 18 percent emerged. Potatoes reached 48 percent planted, 10 days ahead of average, but 4 days behind last year. Sugarbeet planting was 88 percent complete, more than 3 weeks ahead of average. All hay condition rated 65 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition improved to 5 percent very poor, 8 percent poor, 26 percent fair, 53 percent good, and 8 percent excellent. Producers noted that pastures continue to develop nicely and forages generally look very good. In some areas, the weather and resulting mud have been hard on livestock.