Crop progress reports shows, believe it or not, a little progress

Iowa farmers were waiting for warmer weather and drier conditions as snow, ice and rain throughout the State prevented much fieldwork during the week ending April 14, 2019, according to the weekly Crop Progress report from USDA NASS. Statewide there were 1.9 days suitable for fieldwork. Southwest Iowa had the most days suitable for fieldwork at 4.1 days. Fieldwork activities remained mostly limited to applying anhydrous and spreading manure with very little planting done.

Topsoil moisture levels rated 0 percent very short, 0 percent short, 55 percent adequate and 45 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels rated 0 percent very short, 0 percent short, 52 percent adequate and 48 percent surplus.

Sixteen percent of the expected oat crop has been planted, 4 days ahead of last year but a week behind the 5-year average. While one-quarter of the expected oats have been planted in northeast and west central Iowa, north central Iowa farmers have not yet begun planting oats.

Pastures continued to green up slowly with very little livestock placed on pasture ground. Overall, livestock and feedlot conditions have improved. However, in the Northwest District there were reports that recent weather conditions stressed livestock and caused respiratory issues.


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content