Rain slowed fieldwork across parts of Iowa last week, but warmer, drier conditions forecast through the end of September are expected to help farmers proceed with harvest, according to the latest Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Iowa farmers had 4.9 days, on average, suitable for fieldwork during the week ending Sept. 21, which included the beginning of corn and soybean harvest in most areas. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says, “Last week, many areas of the state received several rounds of rain, which tapped the brakes on fall field work. Upcoming forecasts show a switch back to warmer and drier conditions through the end of September. Farmers who have corn and soybeans ready to go will likely take full advantage of that window to make progress on harvest.” He also reminds Iowans that this week is National Farm Safety and Health Week, encouraging caution on roads and farms and urging farmers to look after their mental health during long, stressful workdays. Ninety-five percent of the corn crop was dented or beyond, and 66 percent has matured, four days ahead of last year and two days ahead of the five-year average. Harvest completion is still in the single digits at eight percent, while the crop was rated 74 percent good to excellent. Soybeans were 89 percent coloring, and 62 percent were dropping leaves, a day ahead of average. The soybean crop was rated 74 percent good to excellent. As for moisture conditions, topsoil measured 21 percent short to very short, 70 percent adequate, and nine percent surplus. Subsoil measured 19 percent short to very short, 72 percent adequate, and nine percent surplus. Find the full report online at nass.usda.gov and included with this story on our website.
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USDA – National Agricultural Statistics Service – Iowa
