Not many farmers made it to the field this week because of all the rain. The USDA?s National Agriculture Statistics Service released their first Crop Progress Report Tuesday afternoon. Farmers had a half day for suitable fieldwork with the northeast, central, and southeast reporting one day.
Topsoil moisture levels rated 1 percent very short, 6 percent short, 67 percent adequate, and 26 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels rated 2 percent very short, 6 percent short, 72 percent adequate, and 20 percent surplus. South central Iowa reported the highest surplus subsoil moisture level at 38 percent although just a week ago, according to the USDA?s U.S. Drought Monitor, portions of the area were still considered to be in a moderate drought along with much of southeast Iowa.
Livestock conditions are generally good although muddy lots are reported to be an issue. Calving is already complete for some cattle operations.
