Northwest and southeast Iowa were on opposite sides of the spectrum in terms of precipitation over the last week, with flood conditions near the western border. Still, the days suitable for fieldwork averaged 3.9 statewide, according the the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Spraying and other field activities were limited in some areas due to wet fields.

Topsoil moisture condition rated one percent very short, eight percent short, 74 percent adequate, and 17 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated one percent very short, 11 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 17 percent surplus.

Corn emergence neared completion, as corn condition rated 77 percent good to excellent. Soybeans emerging reached 95 percent. Seven percent of the soybean crop was blooming, one day behind last year but two days ahead of the five-year average. Soybean condition rated 74 percent good to excellent. Eighty-six percent of the oat crop was headed or beyond, six days ahead of the average. Twenty-eight percent of oats were turning color, nine days ahead of the average. Oat condition rated 73 percent good to excellent.

Ninety-five percent of Iowa’s first cutting of alfalfa hay has been completed, six days ahead of last year. Hay condition rated 78 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition decreased slightly to 73 percent good to excellent. Some feedlots remain muddy due to excess rainfall.