Kansas Agricultural Statistics Service says

farmers are concerned about disease levels in this season’s winter

wheat crop.

The agency said Monday in its weekly update the problem is

getting worse, with 20 percent of the crop suffering light disease

infestation. About 5 percent of the crop shows moderate

infestation. Farmers are reporting powdery mildew, stripe and leaf

rust.

Still, the wheat condition report remains mostly upbeat, with 11

percent of the crop rated as excellent and 52 percent rated as

good. About 28 percent got a fair rating, with 9 percent in poor to

very poor condition.

The crop continues to mature, with 64 percent of the wheat now

headed.