Cool and dry weather spurred soybean harvest for many operators across the State, according to Nathanial Warenski, state statistician, USDA NASS, Indiana Field Office. Soil moisture levels decreased from the previous week, with 31 percent of topsoil moisture reported as adequate or surplus.
The average temperature for the week was 48.7 degrees Fahrenheit, 2.9 degrees below normal for the State. The amount of rainfall varied from none to 1.89 inches over the week. The statewide average precipitation was 0.19 inches, 0.58 inches below normal. There were 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday.
Corn for grain harvest progress caught the five-year average pace with 59 percent of corn rated in good to excellent condition.
Soybean harvest progress surged forward and ended the week 7 points ahead of its five-year average.
Winter wheat planting progress continued behind its five-year average. Winter wheat emergence continued to fall behind its five-year average likely due to the delayed planting and persistent dry weather experienced by much of the State in recent weeks.
Third cuttings of other hay and fourth cuttings of alfalfa hay were nearing completion.
Pasture conditions declined from the previous week with only 20 percent of pastures rated in good to excellent condition.
Other activities for the week included tilling, grain transportation and storage operations, and preparing for winter.
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Weather