July 2, 2025
Oklahoma wheat harvest has moved forward over the past couple of days, with harvesting continuing in central and northern parts of the state where rains have been missed. Large portions of north central Oklahoma, along the I-35 corridor, have been plagued with rain this past week, which has hindered progress in that region. Some producers in that area planned to try this afternoon, but many think it will be tomorrow or Friday at the earliest before they can return to the fields — if it doesn’t rain again.
The majority of harvest activity today, and in recent days, has taken place in the Panhandle and in northeast Oklahoma, where rains have finally let up.
The statewide average for test weight remains at 59 lbs., as much heavier weights were harvested earlier in the season. (Current test weights range from 55 lbs. to 60 lbs. per bushel depending on variety, environment and location.) Yields across the state range from the mid-40s to mid-50s for the most part, with lower-yielding wheat reported in areas affected by heavy rains.
Producers using intensive management have reported higher yields ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s. While many northern parts of the state saw strong early wheat, yield loss is now expected due to declining test weights. Protein levels have varied widely — from 9.8% to 14.2%—depending on management and location. The statewide protein average is 11.2%.
The Oklahoma Wheat Commission estimates harvest is 82% complete as of today.
It should be noted that some minor instances of sprout damage have been reported at a 2 to 3 percent level, but most of the crop is still holding up well.
North central and northern Oklahoma
Okeene/Fairview/Ringwood/Lahoma – Test weights continue to come in strong, ranging from 58 lbs. to 60 lbs., with many still reporting above 60. Yields range from the mid-40s to mid-50s, with intensively managed fields reaching 60 to 80 bushels. Protein reports vary, but the regional average is 11.8%. These areas are 95% harvested.
McWillie/Helena/Goltry – Test weights on later cuttings are averaging 60 lbs. per bushel. Yields range from the high 30s to mid-50s depending on management. Some intensively managed fields are making yields in the mid-60s. No protein reported. This region is 95% harvested.
Kremlin/Hunter/Pond Creek – Producers have battled muddy fields throughout harvest, with little movement over the past five days. Test weights have declined slightly, ranging from 55 to 58 lbs. Yields are generally in the mid-40s to mid-50s, with higher yields in well-managed fields. Protein averages 11.2%. This region is about 55% harvested. Some producers planned to try entering fields today if moisture levels drop and no additional rain comes.
Tonkawa/Ponca City/Blackwell/Braman – Test weights are between 56 and 58 lbs. This region has endured heavy rains over the past five days, keeping harvest at a standstill for the past week. Early cuttings yielded from the low 40s to mid-50s. A large area has suffered severe flooding and hail, and several fields may be abandoned due to weed pressure. Protein on early cuttings is averaging 11.1%. This region is 50% harvested. One producer planned to try re-entering fields today, while others expect Friday at the earliest — weather permitting.
Northeast Oklahoma
Afton/Miami – Producers have struggled with rain throughout harvest, but over the past couple of days, this area has missed the heavy rainfall that stalled other northern locations. As a result, progress has been made. This region grows two wheat classes — hard red winter and soft red winter. It is currently 60% harvested.
- Hard red winter wheat – Test weights average 56 lbs. per bushel. Yields range from the mid-20s to mid-50s depending on variety and location.
- Soft red winter wheat – Test weights also average 56 lbs. Yields are similar, ranging from the mid-20s to mid-50s.
Wheat classes and what they are used for
- Hard red winter – A versatile wheat with excellent milling and baking characteristics for pan bread. HRW is also suitable for Asian noodles, hard rolls, flat breads, general-purpose flour and cereal.
- Soft red winter – A weak-gluten wheat with excellent milling and baking characteristics, ideal for cookies, crackers, pretzels, pastries and flat breads.
Panhandle
Balko/Goodwell/Guymon/Hooker – A large portion of dryland harvest is now complete across the Panhandle — estimated at 90%. Irrigated wheat harvest is well underway in the central Panhandle, particularly around Balko. Producers in the Guymon and Hooker areas have started irrigated harvest in the past couple of days.
Dryland yields range from 20 to 50 bushels per acre, depending on variety and location. Irrigated wheat yields range from 80 to 120 bushels per acre.
Test weights on dryland wheat vary from 55 lbs. to 62 lbs., while irrigated test weights range from 58 to 61 lbs. No protein data has been reported yet.
Below, see the 7-day forecast provided by the Oklahoma Mesonet.
NWS Days 1-5 Precipitation Forecast
The Days 1-5 Precipitation Forecast is produced by the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center for July 2-7.
