Warm and dry weather throughout much of Iowa resulted in 5.7 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending October 1, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities for the week were primarily harvesting corn and soybeans.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 28 percent very short, 45 percent short, 26 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 36 percent very short, 43 percent short, 20 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.

Corn maturity reached 92 percent this week, eight days ahead of last year and 13 days ahead of the five-year average. Corn harvested for grain reached 16 percent statewide, four days ahead of both last year and the average. Moisture content of field corn being harvested for grain was 20 percent. Corn condition improved slightly to 51 percent good to excellent. Soybeans dropping leaves was 87 percent this week, five days ahead of both last year and normal. Soybeans harvested reached 24 percent, one day ahead of last year, but equal to the average. Soybean condition improved two percentage points to 49 percent good to excellent.

Pasture conditions rated 15 percent good to excellent. Livestock producers have continued to haul hay and water to their livestock on pasture.