Rainfall in a majority of the State reduced the days suitable for fieldwork to 5.3 during the week ending September 24, according to the latest Crop Progress Report from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Field activities for the week were mainly harvesting corn and soybeans.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 27 percent very short, 46 percent short, 26 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 35 percent very short, 44 percent short, 20 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus.

Corn maturity reached 83 percent this week, nine days ahead of last year and 12 days ahead of the five-year average. Corn harvested for grain reached nine percent statewide, six days ahead of last year and four days ahead of the average. Moisture content of field corn being harvested for grain was at 21 percent. Corn condition improved slightly to 50 percent good to excellent. Soybeans coloring or beyond reached 95 percent, roughly one week ahead of both last year and the average. Soybeans dropping leaves was 75 percent this week, six days ahead of last year and five days ahead of normal. Soybeans harvested reached 11 percent, three days ahead of last year and one day ahead of normal. Soybean condition remained steady at 47 percent good to excellent.

Pasture conditions rated 17 percent good to excellent. Livestock conditions have not changed much from last week, with concerns of hay being in short supply for next year.