Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey, commented today (Tuesday) on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report released Monday saying some much needed rain helped farmers in many areas of the state. At the latest, 78 percent of the corn crop was rated in good to excellent condition. Soybean emergence reached 92 percent, five days behind last year but still four days ahead of average. Their condition was rated at 74 percent good to excellent. Oats were assessed at 77 percent good to excellent with 67 percent headed, four days behind last year. Ninety-four percent of alfalfa hay had been cut with second cutting starting in some areas. Northey said, “Many parts of the state saw some needed rain last week, unfortunately, it was accompanied by some severe weather that caused some hail damage to crops. In general, crops remain in pretty good condition.” Statewide average rainfall was 1.4 inches, leaving 71 percent of topsoil with adequate moisture. Many reports note a timely rainfall would have a significant effect on crop conditions.
