Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report Indicates Relief from Drought Conditions

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

The latest Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report was released by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The report covers the week of June 19 to June 25, 2023, and highlights the impact of weather conditions on crop growth and farming activities.

The report reveals that hot and dry conditions prevailed during the week, negatively affecting crop development. However, a shift in the weather pattern over the weekend brought widespread rainfall to many parts of Iowa, including areas experiencing ongoing drought.

Key findings from the report include:

• Above-average temperatures and below-normal precipitation resulted in 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork.

• Visible crop stress was reported due to persistent dryness, although some areas in north central and northeast Iowa received much-needed rain.

• Topsoil moisture conditions were rated as 22 percent very short, 45 percent short, 32 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture conditions followed a similar pattern.

• Corn started to silk, but its condition continued to decline, with 56 percent rated as good to excellent.

• Soybeans were blooming, ahead of both last year and the 5-year average. However, soybean condition also dropped to 48 percent good to excellent.

• The oat crop was ahead of schedule, with 95 percent having headed and 25 percent turning color. Oat condition declined to 47 percent good to excellent.

• The first cutting of alfalfa hay was nearly complete, and the second cutting was 18 percent complete, ahead of last year and the average. Hay condition declined to 32 percent good to excellent.

• Pasture condition was rated as just 23 percent good to excellent, leading livestock producers to supplement with hay due to deteriorating pasture conditions.

• Rainfall at the end of the reporting period brought relief, with above-average totals in northern Iowa and below-average totals in southern Iowa.

The weather summary for the week indicates a mix of conditions, including showers, thunderstorms, foggy mornings, and clear skies. Temperatures were generally above normal, with some areas experiencing unseasonably warm weather.

The report provides insights into the current state of Iowa's crops and highlights the importance of rainfall for their continued growth. While challenges persist, the recent rainfall offers hope for improved conditions in the weeks ahead.