Iowa — Last week was another week of colder-than-normal temperatures in Iowa with rain and snow. Farmers in the state-as-a-whole had nearly three days suitable for fieldwork, while farmers in northwest Iowa had just under 2.5 days suitable for fieldwork.
According to the USDA Crop Progress Report, minimal fieldwork was done during the week, but some producers were able to apply anhydrous, manure, and dry fertilizer. High winds prevented producers from spraying fertilizer towards the end of the week.
In northwest Iowa, half of the topsoil moisture is rated adequate, with a six percent surplus. 42 percent of subsoil in northwest Iowa has adequate moisture, with a five percent surplus. Statewide, 47 percent of topsoil has adequate moisture with a four percent surplus, and 34 percent of subsoil has adequate moisture, with a two percent surplus.
The report says 43 percent of oats are planted in northwest Iowa. Statewide, 32 percent of oats seeding is complete, which is six days ahead of last year and one week ahead of the five-year average. Four percent of the oats crop had emerged.
(Courtesy Community First Broadcasting station KAYL in Storm Lake)
