In the latest Crop Progress and Condition Report, the State of Iowa continues to see below-average precipitation. As a result, farmers were left with 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities included cutting hay and spraying crops, while drought concerns were still prominent.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 20 percent very short, 50 percent short, 30 percent adequate, and 0 percent surplus. The percentage of topsoil moisture considered short to very short has gone from 25 percent the week ending May 21, to 70 percent last week, just one month later. Subsoil moisture condition rated 17 percent very short, 47 percent short, 35 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.

Corn condition continued to decline, rating 59 percent good to excellent. Ninety-eight percent of soybeans have emerged, 10 days ahead of last year and two weeks ahead of the five-year average. Soybean condition dropped to 56 percent good to excellent. Eighty-four percent of the oat crop has headed, 11 days ahead of last year and the average. Ten percent of oats were turning color, one week ahead of last year and normal. Oat condition declined to 50 percent good to excellent.

Ninety-six percent of the State’s first cutting of alfalfa hay has been completed and the second cutting has started with six percent complete, roughly one week ahead of last year and the average. Hay condition declined to 36 percent good to excellent, while pasture condition rated just 28 percent good to excellent. Livestock producers have started to supplement with hay as pasture conditions continue to decline. Reports were also received of concerns with water supply as some ponds and creeks have been going dry.