Iowa On Track According to Latest Crop Progress Report

The latest numbers from the USDA shows Iowa fields are on average, where they typically sit at this time of year. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig commented on the Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report released by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. 

Farmers had 5.4 days suitable for fieldwork last week. Topsoil moisture condition rated 2 percent very short, 19 percent short, 69 percent adequate, and 10 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 3 percent very short, 21 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 9 percent surplus.

Corn silking in Iowa reached 1 percent, which is 2 percentage points behind last year. Corn condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. 

Soybeans emerged at 99 percent, which is 1 percentage point ahead of last year. Soybeans blooming reached 18 percent, which is 3 percentage points behind last year. Soybeans setting pods reached 1 percent, which is 3 percentage points behind last year. Soybean condition rated 75 percent good to excellent. 

Oats headed reached 94 percent, which is 5 percentage points ahead of last year. Oats condition rated 81 percent good to excellent. Pasture conditions rated 77 percent good to excellent.

At the close of the report, Secretary Naig said, “As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday with community events, backyard barbecues and fireworks, we’re reminded that agriculture has always been central to our nation’s story. Our farmers have helped feed, fuel and sustain America since its founding, and they will continue to play a vital role in our nation’s strength, security and prosperity for the next 250 years.”