Cold and damp weather across Iowa, including above-average precipitation in the northern two-thirds of the State led to 4.2 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending October 15. This according to the latest Crop Progress and Condition Report from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Corn and soybean harvest continued to be the main field activities for the week, although there were some reports of fall tillage and dry fertilizer being applied.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 19 percent very short, 38 percent short, 40 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 31 percent very short, 43 percent short, 24 percent adequate, and 2 percent surplus.

Virtually all of the State’s corn crop has reached maturity. Corn harvested for grain reached 42 percent statewide, three days ahead of last year and five days ahead of the average. Moisture content of field corn being harvested for grain was at 17 percent. Corn condition rated 51 percent good to excellent. Soybeans dropping leaves was 98 percent this week. Soybeans harvested reached 74 percent, one day ahead of last year and nine days ahead of the average.

Pasture condition rated 17 percent good to excellent. Livestock conditions were generally good. Some producers continue to haul hay and purchase hay in preparation for winter, while others have turned cattle out to feed on fields of corn stalks.