North Dakota Farmers Worry About Soil Moisture Amid Warm Winter

Unseasonably high temperatures raise concerns about soil health ahead of spring planting season.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Farmers in North Dakota are expressing concerns about soil moisture levels and soil structure due to unseasonably warm winter weather, which could lead to fungal and bacterial infections and impact the upcoming planting season. An agricultural extension agent says it's too early to tell how the planting season will be affected, but the key factor to monitor is soil temperature to ensure the ground is properly thawed before planting begins.

Why it matters

North Dakota is a major agricultural state, with farming and ranching playing a crucial role in the state's economy. Disruptions to planting seasons due to weather patterns can have significant impacts on crop yields and the livelihoods of the state's farmers.

The details

Farmers in North Dakota are reporting unusually warm temperatures this winter, which is causing concerns about soil moisture levels and soil structure. The warm weather raises the risk of fungal and bacterial infections in the soil, which could negatively impact the upcoming planting season. An agricultural extension agent says the most important factor to monitor is soil temperature, to ensure the ground is properly thawed before planting begins.

  • Unseasonably warm temperatures have been reported in North Dakota this winter.

The players

North Dakota Farmers

Farmers in the state of North Dakota who are responsible for the planting and cultivation of crops.

AG and Natural Resources Extension Agent

An agricultural and natural resources expert who provides guidance and information to farmers in North Dakota.

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What they’re saying

“The most important thing to watch is soil temperature to ensure the ground is thawing or is thawed before planting begins.”

— AG and Natural Resources Extension Agent (dakotanewsnetwork.com)

The takeaway

The unseasonably warm winter weather in North Dakota is raising concerns among farmers about the health of the soil and the potential impact on the upcoming planting season. Monitoring soil temperature will be crucial to ensuring a successful planting season and protecting the state's vital agricultural industry.