Wet and cold conditions across much of Iowa slowed field work or even brought it to a standstill for the week ending May 15, 2016, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Statewide there were just 2.2 days suitable for fieldwork. There were some reports of frost in low-lying areas.

Topsoil moisture levels rated 0 percent very short, 1 percent short, 82 percent adequate and 17 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels rated 0 percent very short, 1 percent short, 83 percent adequate and 16 percent surplus. Similar to last week, the western third of Iowa reported the largest percentages of surplus and adequate subsoil moisture levels.

Eighty-eight percent of the corn crop has been planted, a day behind last year, but 4 days ahead of the 5-year average. Farmers in north central and central Iowa are close to completion with 97 percent or more of the corn crop planted. Fifty-one percent of corn has emerged, 5 days ahead of the average. Forty-three percent of the soybean acreage has been planted, 2 days ahead of normal. There were scattered reports of soybeans emerged. Oats emerged reached 94 percent, 6 days ahead of the previous year and 9 days ahead of the average. Oat condition was rated 78 percent good to excellent.

Hay condition rated 73 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition rated 71 percent good to excellent; benefiting from the added moisture during the week. Livestock conditions were reported as mostly normal although feedlots were muddy.

Source:  Iowa Dept of Ag

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