By Blake Jackson
As of October 27, 2024, Wisconsin experienced 6.6 days suitable for fieldwork, as reported by the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service.
The state enjoyed a warm and dry week with minimal rainfall, which facilitated significant progress in row crop harvests, placing them ahead of the typical schedule.
However, these weather conditions also contributed to declines in wheat and pasture conditions, along with lower soil moisture levels.
The topsoil moisture levels were concerning, with 31% rated as very short, 42% short, and 27% adequate, while subsoil moisture was rated at 23% very short, 40% short, and 37% adequate.
Nearly the entire corn crop reached maturity at 97%, and 65% of the corn intended for grain has been harvested 15 days ahead of both last year and the five-year average. The moisture content of the harvested corn was recorded at 17%.
The soybean harvest was nearly complete, with 96% finished, which is approximately four weeks ahead of last year's pace and the average.
The planting of winter wheat is also nearly concluded, with 96% planted and 74% of the crop emerged three days earlier than last year and five days ahead of the average. Currently, winter wheat conditions are rated at 66% good to excellent, a decrease of nine percentage points from the previous week.
In terms of fieldwork, fall tillage is 51% complete, and pasture and range conditions are rated at 23% good to excellent, down three percentage points from last week.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dale-fornoff
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Corn, Soybeans