The fall harvest was slowed somewhat last week following some much-needed rain, but farmers are still ahead of last year and the five-year average in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report. Farmers had 5.3 days on average for fieldwork during the week ending Sept. 24, focusing almost entirely on harvesting corn and soybeans. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says, “Much-needed rainfall last week paused some harvesting but will help cover crops get established while replenishing soil moisture in areas hit hard by drought. Warmer weather and better chances of rain are expected into early October as farmers continue to harvest as conditions allow.” Corn harvested for grain reached nine percent statewide, six days ahead of last year and four days ahead of average. Moisture content for harvested corn was at 21 percent. Corn conditions improved to 50 percent good to excellent. The 2023 soybean harvest reached 11 percent, three days ahead of last year and a day ahead of normal. Soybean conditions were unchanged from 47 percent good to excellent. Topsoil moisture conditions rated 73 percent short to very short, 26 percent adequate, and one percent surplus, while subsoil moisture conditions rated 79 percent short to very short, 20 percent adequate, and one percent surplus. You can find the full report online at www.nass.usda.gov.
