Iowa Weekly Crop Report, April 24, 2016

Rain slowed planting progress in much of Iowa during the week ending April 24, 2016, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Statewide there were 3.6 days suitable for fieldwork. Other activities for the week included tillage, anhydrous applications, and planting preparations.

Topsoil moisture levels rated 0 percent very short, 5 percent short, 89 percent adequate and 6 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels rated 0 percent very short, 3 percent short, 90 percent adequate and 7 percent surplus.

Forty percent of the corn acreage has been planted, 6 days ahead of last year and 11 days ahead of the 5-year average. Farmers in north central, central, and southeast Iowa have already planted over half their corn crop. Ninety-two percent of the State’s oat crop has been planted, one week ahead of last year and more than 2 weeks ahead of average. Oats emerged reached 40 percent, moving ahead of average for the first time this year. There were scattered reports of soybeans being planted.

Pasture condition rated 61 percent good to excellent, with pastures described as green and growing. Livestock conditions were reported as good, although some feedlots were back to muddy conditions due to the rain.

Source:  Iowa Dept of Ag