Iowa farmers had 5.9 days suitable for field work during the week ending October 8, according to the latest Crop Progress Report from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Corn and soybean harvest continued to be the primary field activities for the week.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 32 percent very short, 44 percent short, 23 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 37 percent very short, 43 percent short, 19 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.

Corn maturity reached 96 percent this week, eight days ahead of last year and 11 days ahead of the five-year average. Corn harvested for grain reached 30 percent statewide, five days ahead of last year and six days ahead of the average. Moisture content of field corn being harvested for grain was at 19 percent. Corn condition declined slightly to 48 percent good to excellent. Soybeans dropping leaves was at 94 percent this week, three days ahead of last year and five days ahead of the average. Soybeans harvested reached 52 percent, one day ahead of last year and one week ahead of the average as Iowa farmers were able to harvest 28 percent of the State’s soybeans during this last week. Soybean condition rated 48 percent good to excellent.

Pasture conditions meanwhile rated 16 percent good to excellent. Livestock conditions were reported as generally good, but some producers continued to haul hay and water to their livestock on pasture.