Much needed rainfall limited farmers to 4.2 suitable days for field work last week, according to the latest Crop Progress and Condition report from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Iowa’s corn condition improved slightly to 66% good to excellent, with corn silking or beyond reaching 21%, two days behind the five-year average. There were scattered reports of corn reaching the dough stage. Soybean condition improved to 65% good to excellent, with 56% of soybeans blooming and 15% of soybeans setting pods, both five days ahead of normal. There were scattered reports of crops lying flat due to strong winds and hail. Field activities included hauling grain, applying fungicides, and harvesting hay and oats. Pasture condition was rated 43% good to excellent, and there was little stress on livestock although a few producers reported some pinkeye in cattle.