Unseasonably warm average temperatures and mild rates of precipitation resulted in optimal fieldwork conditions for many, according to Nathanial Warenski, state statistician, USDA NASS, Indiana Field Office. Soil moisture levels remained unchanged from the previous week, with 68 percent of topsoil moisture reported as adequate or surplus.
The average temperature for the week was 66.6 degrees Fahrenheit, 5.0 degrees above normal for the State. The amount of rainfall varied from 0.02 to 1.43 inches over the week. The statewide average precipitation was 0.47 inches, 0.30 inches below normal. There were 6.0 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday.
Harvest progress continued behind schedule this week. Corn harvested for grain continued behind its five-year average with 54 percent of corn rated in good to excellent condition. Soybean harvest also continued behind its five-year average with 55 percent of the crop rated in good to excellent condition. Winter wheat planting continued behind its five-year average as well with about only 4 percent of the crop planted thus far. Cuttings for alfalfa and other hay were taken when regrowth was considered adequate.
Livestock throughout much of the State reportedly enjoyed adequate pasture regrowth and relatively mild weather conditions. Pasture conditions improved somewhat from the previous week with 46 percent of pasture rated in good to excellent condition.
Other activities for the week included tomato harvesting and preparing equipment for harvest.
Categories: Indiana, Harvesting