Rainfall over the last week has benefitted the drier parts of the state, though farmers should be wary of possible freezing temperatures over the next few days, according to Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig.

The latest Iowa Crop Progress and Conditions report from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service shows measurable rainfall across the state allowed farmers 3.1 days suitable for field work last week. Activities included applying anhydrous and fertilizer, spreading manure, spring tillage, and planting oats. There were also scattered reports of corn being planted. Topsoil moisture levels rated 4% very short, 17% short, 69% adequate, and 10% surplus. Subsoil moisture levels rated 12% very short, 28% short, 56% adequate, and 4% surplus. Pasture condition is rated 3% very poor, 11% poor, 42% fair, 40% good, and 4% excellent.