Winter crops in several regions were not in the best condition going into winter and there is concern for the upcoming harvest. However, experts and farmers are optimistic, with the potential for a good or record harvest, as long as severe frosts are avoided. The Russian Grain Union's Arkady Zlochevsky notes that the melted snow has replenished soil moisture, but there are risks, especially with insufficient spring snow and potential returns of frosts. Unprofitability has led some regions not to sow winter crops, which could result in a decreased harvest compared to the year before. Weather conditions and lack of precipitation have affected the condition of the crops at wintering, with concerns about weed growth and rodent infestations. Warm weather and rain have provided some benefits but also raised concerns about damping off or freezing. Some farmers believe that an early harvest of winter crops may be possible if there is little snow throughout the winter.