News

Dry week ends with rain over Northern Iowa

A mostly dry week ended with much needed precipitation across north-central and northeast Iowa.

USDA’s latest crop update says there are widespread reports of crop stress because of dry conditions, but farmers were able to cut hay and spray corn and soybeans.

Corn condition ratings continue to decline with just 56 percent of the crop considered good to excellent.  Some corn is starting to silk.

Soybeans have begun to bloom, but less than 50 percent of the crop is now rated good to excellent.

The second cutting of alfalfa is about a week ahead of the five-year average at 18 percent complete.