Much of Iowa received heavy rains which only allowed farmers 3.9 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending June 30, 2024, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities were limited due to rain and flooding throughout much of the State.
Topsoil moisture condition rated 1 percent very short, 7 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 16 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 1 percent very short, 10 percent short, 75 percent adequate and 14 percent surplus.
Corn silking reached 4 percent, 1 day ahead of last year and 4 days ahead of the 5-year average. Corn condition fell 4 percentage points to 73 percent good to excellent. Soybeans blooming reached 19 percent, 1 day behind of last year but 2 days ahead of average. The condition of the soybean crop was 72 percent good to excellent. Ninety-three percent of the oat crop has headed. Oats turning color reached 43 percent, 6 days ahead of the average. Oat condition rated 72 percent good to excellent.
The State’s second cutting of alfalfa hay reached 17 percent complete, equal to the 5-year average. Hay condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition rated 73 percent good to excellent. Many feedlots remain muddy due to excess moisture.
You can find this weekly report on the USDA’s website at nass.usda.gov