Scattered precipitation across Iowa gave farmers 5.1 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending August 17, 2025, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities included oat and hay harvests, along with limited reports of fungicide and insecticide applications.
Moisture levels remained favorable across most of the state. Topsoil moisture was rated 72 percent adequate and 26 percent surplus, with only 2 percent short. Subsoil moisture mirrored the trend, with 73 percent adequate and 23 percent surplus.
Corn development continued steadily, with nearly all fields silking. Corn in the dough stage reached 78 percent, slightly behind last year and the five-year average, while 27 percent of corn had entered the dent stage, on pace with historical trends. Overall corn condition was rated 86 percent good to excellent.
Soybeans were also progressing well, with 96 percent of fields blooming and 83 percent setting pods. Crop condition was rated 82 percent good to excellent. Oat harvest was nearly complete, with 91 percent of the crop harvested.
Hay and pasture conditions reflected the season’s favorable rainfall. The third cutting of alfalfa reached 65 percent complete, while pastures were rated 83 percent good to excellent. Frequent rains extended grazing opportunities, and livestock were generally reported in good condition, though some stress was noted from heat and humidity.