Scattered storms provided some needed rain in southeast Iowa, but also reports of hail and severe weather elements in the latest crop reported according to the USDA. It was determined there were 3.9 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending June 12th. Activities in the field included cutting hay and grass and chemical applications.

Topsoil moisture conditions were rated 10% surplus, 79% adequate, 9% short and 2% very short. Subsoil moisture conditions were 6% surplus, 75% adequate, 16% short and 3% very short. Row crop planting was deemed to be complete but there were reports of weather issues in certain parts of the state causing corn or soybean replant to be necessary. Corn emergence hit the 95% plateau, one week behind last year, but one day ahead of the five-year average. Corn is rated 86% good to excellent. For soybeans, 97% of this year’s crop has been planted, eight days behind last year, but four days ahead of the five-year average. At this point, 84% of soybeans have emerged, one week behind last year but two days ahead of average. The crop is considered 82% good to excellent. For the oat crop, 38% has headed, five days behind last year and is rated 82% good to excellent.

The state’s first alfalfa hay cutting is more than halfway complete at 59%, six days behind last year. Harvest condition is rated 71% good to excellent. Pasture condition is rated 65% good to excellent, despite a report of an increase in the fly population that is beginning to affect livestock.