North Dakota farmers struggling to get crops planted

(Bismarck, ND) -- North Dakota farmers are struggling to get crops planted, with heavy rains and poor planting conditions interfering with the process.

State officials say the percentage of crops planted over the past few weeks is significantly lower compared to the same time period in previous years. Only 23-percent of sugar beets have been planted this year, compared to 100 percent at the same point last year.

Wet fields make planting difficult and prevent seeds from growing and getting access to nutrients. The state Department of Agriculture says the delay isn't a disaster yet, with time still available to catch up on planting.