By Andi Anderson
During the week ending on October 29, 2023, moderate rainfall in some parts of Iowa slowed down the harvest process for farmers. According to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, Iowa farmers had an average of 4.2 days suitable for fieldwork during this week. Fieldwork activities included harvesting row crops, fall tillage, applying fall fertilizer, baling stalks, and hauling manure.
The topsoil moisture conditions were reported as follows: 12 percent very short, 35 percent short, 51 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture conditions were as follows: 25 percent very short, 42 percent short, 31 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus.
Corn harvested for grain had reached 77 percent statewide, which was one day ahead of last year and 8 days ahead of the 5-year average. The moisture content of field corn being harvested for grain remained steady at 17 percent. Soybeans harvested reached 93 percent, keeping pace with last year but 8 days ahead of the average.
Pasture conditions slightly improved, with 20 percent rated as good to excellent. Livestock conditions were generally good, but some producers continued to face challenges in providing water to pastured cattle. Here is the crop condition and progress as of October 29, 2023:
Crop Condition:
- Pasture and range: Very Poor 14%, Poor 24%, Fair 42%, Good 18%, Excellent 2%
Crop Progress:
- Corn harvested for grain: 77%
- Soybeans harvested: 93%
The weather in Iowa during this period saw several weather disturbances, resulting in widespread rains and the first measurable snow in northwest Iowa. Most of the state received above-average precipitation. Unusually warm temperatures persisted until a Canadian airmass brought in winter-like conditions over the weekend, with the statewide average temperature being 53.0 degrees, which was 6.7 degrees above normal.
The weather events during the week included showers, thundershowers, and isolated storms, along with strong southerly winds. Showers and thunderstorms continued into the late evening, and significant rainfall was observed in various regions. Subsequent days saw varying temperatures and conditions, with overcast skies, gusty northwesterly winds, and even light snow in northern Iowa.
Throughout the week, weekly precipitation totals ranged from 0.04 inches to 2.64 inches, with the statewide weekly average precipitation being 1.00 inch, more than double the normal amount of 0.48 inches. High and low temperatures during the week were notably above or below average, with the high reaching 83 degrees and the low dropping to 22 degrees in different areas of the state.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-orientaly
Categories: Iowa, Harvesting