Warm and dry conditions allowed Iowa farmers 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending September 14th. According to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service, field activities included finishing up the third cutting of hay, harvesting corn silage and preparing for row crop harvest. 

In southeast Iowa, 90% of corn has reached the dented stage. Corn condition for the state is rated 1% very poor, 4% poor, 16% fair, 59% good and 20% excellent. 

Soybeans reached 67% coloring with 32% dropping leaves, in southeast Iowa. Soybean condition in the state is rated 1% very poor, 4% poor, 20% fair, 57% good and 18% excellent. 

The third cutting of alfalfa hay reached 91% complete in southeast Iowa. Pasture condition was rated at 75% good to excellent for the state. 

This past week’s warmer weather is expected to give way to some potential rain. Listen to KCII for weather updates. Harvest is underway in parts of southeast Iowa. Drivers are reminded to be patient with machinery on the roadways, and be cautious when going around them, or making turns.