By Andi Anderson
Iowa's fieldwork activities have slowed down as the harvest season nears completion. According to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, only 6.1 days were suitable for fieldwork during the week ending November 26, 2023. This slowdown is attributed to the completion of fertilizer and manure application activities.
Topsoil moisture conditions remain challenging, with 22% rated as very short, 45% rated as short, and 33% rated as adequate. Subsoil moisture conditions are also concerning, with 33% rated as very short, 40% rated as short, and 26% rated as adequate.
Corn harvest for grain is virtually complete, with only a few combines still operating in the southern part of the state. This year's harvest is 9 days ahead of the 5-year average.
Cattle grazing on stalk fields continued this week, and no reports were received regarding livestock conditions.
As the harvest season comes to a close, Iowa's farmers are looking ahead to the winter months and planning for the next planting season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Harvesting