Iowa’s corn harvest is nearly finished, but a stretch of heavy rain has put the brakes on the final push, delaying the state’s full completion of the season’s crop collection.
With just 5% of its corn left in the fields, Iowa’s harvest is nearly complete, though a recent burst of rain has temporarily slowed the process. According to the state’s crop progress and condition report, this year’s harvest is running ahead of schedule, but wet weather is now delaying the final stages.
The Harvest So Far: A Rapid Season
Iowa’s corn harvest this year has been unusually fast, with farmers four days ahead of last year’s harvest and nearly two weeks ahead of the average pace. As of November 10, 95% of Iowa’s corn has already been harvested for grain. This is an impressive feat, considering how unpredictable harvest seasons can be.
However, one area of the state, South Central Iowa, remains behind. The region still has more than 15% of its corn left in the fields, but even this is catching up to the rest of the state. Despite these delays in certain areas, the state’s overall harvest rate is consistent with that of other major corn-producing states like Texas and North Carolina, both of which have already finished their harvests for the year.
Iowa’s rapid harvest season was largely thanks to a warm and dry September and October. This dry stretch allowed farmers to work at a quicker pace, but now, the weather has taken a turn.
Rain Slows Harvest, but Brings Relief
The rain that Iowa has received in recent weeks is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it has slowed the final stages of the corn harvest, making just three days last week suitable for fieldwork. On the other hand, this rainfall has provided much-needed relief to the state’s soil conditions. Average rainfall in Iowa from November 4 through November 10 was 1.14 inches, which is more than double the normal 0.52 inches for this time of year.
The rainfall has also brought some relief from drought conditions. The U.S. Drought Monitor’s Thursday report shows a 37% decrease in the area of Iowa experiencing severe drought, with 6% of the state now reporting no drought conditions at all. This shift is a welcome change, as Iowa had been battling dry conditions for much of the summer and fall.
Despite the rain’s temporary slowdown, it has helped improve the soil moisture levels, with 50% of the topsoil now rated as adequate for farming. This shift in conditions could be a boon for farmers who still have tasks ahead, including fall tillage and nitrogen application.
Soil Conditions and Fall Nitrogen Application
The recent rain has done more than just slow down the harvest; it has also improved soil conditions. Iowa’s state climatologist, Justin Glisan, reported that soil moisture levels are improving, which is particularly important for upcoming agricultural activities. With soil temperatures in the upper 40s to lower 50s, conditions are nearing ideal for fall nitrogen application. This is crucial for farmers to ensure a healthy start for next year’s crops.
In addition to nitrogen application, farmers are also busy with fall tillage and baling stalks, two tasks that typically occur after the harvest. These activities help prepare the fields for winter and next season’s planting.
Governor Extends Harvest Proclamation
To help farmers meet the challenges of a delayed harvest, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has extended her harvest proclamation through December 8. This proclamation, which was first issued in September, allows overweight vehicles transporting agricultural products to travel on state highways without a permit. The extension will give farmers more flexibility as they work to finish their harvests, despite the wet weather.
With harvests nearly complete and favorable weather ahead, Iowa’s agricultural community is gearing up for the final steps of a successful, albeit delayed, harvest season. While this year’s weather challenges have certainly posed obstacles, the outlook remains positive as the state’s crop conditions continue to improve.
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