Last week, Iowa experienced its wettest week of the growing season so far, with multiple rounds of rain improving crop and pasture conditions, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Crop Progress and Condition Report. For the week ending June 29, Iowa farmers had an average of 2.7 days for fieldwork. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says, “Last week brought multiple rounds of rain to much of the state, marking the wettest seven days of the growing season thus far. In addition to benefiting the corn and soybeans, the moisture helps to replenish our streams, pastures, and hay fields. Corn tassels are also just beginning to show after the recent warm weather, signaling crop development remains on track. As July begins, Iowans can expect seasonal temperatures and fewer storm chances – pleasant conditions for a festive and fun Independence Day weekend filled with fireworks, cookouts, and outdoor celebrations.” Corn silking reached three percent, with 85 percent of the crop rated good to excellent. Soybeans blooming hit 22 percent, three days ahead of last year and two days ahead of average. Some of last week’s rains were reflected in the U.S. Drought Monitor for June 26, which showed that about half of the state had no drought conditions, while the remaining half was classified as abnormally dry or experiencing moderate drought. Topsoil moisture conditions measured 10 percent short to very short, 69 percent adequate, and 21 percent surplus, while subsoil moisture was rated 17 percent short to very short, 70 percent adequate, and 13 percent surplus. Find the complete weekly report online at www.nass.usda.gov.
