(NAFB.com) – U.S. winter wheat crop conditions remained under pressure this week as drought persisted across parts of the Plains, raising concerns about yields ahead of harvest. USDA rated only about 30% of the nation’s winter wheat crop in good-to-excellent condition, while a large share was listed as fair or poor. Dryness in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and neighboring states has limited soil moisture during key growth stages. Wheat futures moved higher as traders weighed the potential for smaller production if rains do not arrive soon. The Plains region is a major source of hard red winter wheat used in bread flour and other products. Farmers and analysts said timely spring moisture could still improve prospects in some areas, but continued warm and dry weather would increase stress. Crop conditions are closely watched each spring because they can influence harvest expectations, export supplies, and grain prices for both domestic mills and overseas buyers.