Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig commented on the Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report released by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The report is released weekly April through November. Additionally, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship provides a weather summary each week during this time.
“We approach Thanksgiving with a deep sense of gratitude for the hardworking farm families who produced yet another substantial crop, despite numerous challenges, including a record 176 consecutive weeks of at least D1 drought,” said Secretary Naig. “Weather conditions are expected to be colder and drier as Iowans hit the road to gather and give thanks with friends and family.”
The weekly report is also available on the USDA’s website at nass.usda.gov.
Crop Report
Another dry and warmer than normal week statewide led to 6.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending November 19, 2023, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Fieldwork included harvesting corn, completing fall tillage, applying fall fertilizer, and hauling manure. Reports of tile work being done in fields were received this week.
Topsoil moisture condition rated 22 percent very short, 47 percent short, 31 percent adequate and 0 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 32 percent very short, 43 percent short, 24 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus.
Corn harvested for grain reached 97 percent statewide, on pace with last year but 10 days ahead of the 5-year average. Farmers in South Central Iowa still have over 10 percent of their corn for grain crop remaining to be harvested.
Cattle continued grazing on stalk fields. Reports of more calves being weaned were received.
Source: iowaagriculture.gov
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Livestock