In the latest Crop Progress and Condition Report, western Iowa received some much-needed rainfall while farmers statewide had 5.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending July 9. This according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Most field activities continue to be spraying crops and cutting hay, as some reports were received of farmers beginning to harvest oats for grain.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 15 percent very short, 42 percent short, 42 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 19 percent very short, 45 percent short, 35 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.

Corn silking hit 22 percent this week, six days ahead of last year and two days ahead of the five-year average. Some reports were received of corn starting to dough, while corn condition remained steady at 61 percent good to excellent. Forty-six percent of soybeans were blooming, five days ahead of last year and three days ahead of the average. Soybeans setting pods reached seven percent, four days ahead of last year and one day ahead of normal. Soybean condition rated 52 percent good to excellent. Sixty-seven percent of oats were turning color, eight days ahead of last year and five days ahead of normal. Oat condition improved slightly at 52 percent good to excellent.

Iowa’s second cutting of alfalfa hay reached 58 percent complete, nine days ahead of last year and 1 week ahead of the average. Hay condition improved slightly to 35 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition rated 24 percent good to excellent. Livestock producers continued to supplement with hay as pasture conditions remained below average.