Rain and Wind Slow Iowa Fieldwork Progress in Early August

By Andi Anderson

Fieldwork in Iowa was slowed during the week ending August 3, 2025, due to rain and strong winds, leaving farmers with just 3.8 days suitable for field operations, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Scattered storms caused some crop damage, particularly in low-lying areas where excess water created challenging conditions.

Topsoil moisture was reported as 64% adequate and 31% surplus, while subsoil moisture stood at 66% adequate and 27% surplus, showing generally favorable soil conditions despite the recent storms.

Corn development remains ahead of schedule, with 92% silking, 53% in the dough stage, and 9% dented. This is two days ahead of last year and the five-year average. Corn condition was reported as 57% good and 28% excellent, with only 3% rated poor or very poor.

Soybean progress also continues steadily, with 89% blooming and 65% setting pods. This puts soybeans four days ahead of last year, although one day behind the five-year average. Soybean condition was rated as 59% good and 21% excellent.

Nearly all of Iowa’s oat crop has turned color, and 64% has been harvested.

Alfalfa hay harvest continues with 93% of the second cutting and 39% of the third cutting complete. Hay condition was rated 84% good to excellent, and pastures were rated 81% good to excellent, although some grazing lands in North Central Iowa were affected by standing water.

Despite the recent weather-related challenges, Iowa's crops and pastures remain in strong condition, with most development stages slightly ahead of historical averages, providing optimism for the season ahead.

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