By Andi Anderson
Recent rainfall brought much-needed relief to Iowa farmers, providing a boost to soil moisture levels across the state. According to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Iowa farmers had 4.7 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending November 3, 2024.
Despite some delays, farmers made progress in harvesting corn and soybeans and completing fall tillage, as well as applying fertilizer and manure in preparation for winter.
The rain positively impacted soil conditions, with topsoil moisture levels now rated at 21% very short, 38% short, 39% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture conditions showed similar improvement, rated at 27% very short, 42% short, and 31% adequate.
However, zero percent of subsoil moisture is rated as surplus, indicating ongoing challenges with water retention in some areas.
Corn harvest across the state reached 92%, putting farmers six days ahead of last year and two weeks ahead of the five-year average.
The moisture content of harvested corn remains steady at 14%, an ideal level for storage and processing. With soybean and corn harvests progressing well, farmers are also focused on applying fall tillage to prepare fields for the next planting season.
Livestock producers also faced changing conditions as rain turned many feedlots from dry and dusty to muddy, impacting cattle management. Reports indicate that producers are actively weaning calves, with some being sent to local sale barns, which is typical for this time of year.
This week’s rainfall has provided a much-needed boost to Iowa’s crop and livestock sectors. While the additional moisture improved conditions, farmers remain vigilant as they balance fieldwork and livestock management during this crucial harvest period.
As they work toward completing the season, the recent rain offers hope for better soil moisture levels in the coming months.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Iowa, Harvesting