Report: Kansas snowmelt helps soil, ponds

(AP) - A new report shows the recent snowfall in Kansas has helped relieve some drought conditions.
   
Kansas Agricultural Statistics Service said Monday the melting snow has improved soil moisture in parts of the state. Water levels in stock ponds are also showing slight improvement.
   
But the agency says more moisture is still needed.
   
Topsoil moisture levels across Kansas are now rated 49 percent short to very short, while subsoil moisture levels are 83 percent short to very short. Stock water supplies are 85 percent short to very short.
   
Meanwhile, 35 percent of the winter wheat crop is rate in poor to very poor condition. About 41 percent of the wheat is in fair condition, with 23 percent rated good and 1 percent in excellent condition.