The Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship released the second Crop Progress and Condition Report for the year this week with Monday marking the earliest date for farmers in Iowa to plant corn and remain eligible for federal crop insurance. As a result, Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Naig, expects to begin seeing more planters in the fields this week.

Days suitable for fieldwork increased to 3.5 during the week ending April 9, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities included fertilizer applications and some oat seeding.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 3 percent very short, 19 percent short, 73 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 7 percent very short, 27 percent short, 62 percent adequate, and 4 percent surplus.

Thirteen percent of the expected oat crop has been planted, one day ahead of last year, but one day behind the five-year average. Pastures were starting to green, although growth was minimal. Calving continued and overall livestock conditions improved with warmer weather.

For a copy of all 2023 Crop Progress and Condition Reports, click here.