Despite rain last week, which provided a brief respite to very dry conditions, many Indiana farms were still in need of precipitation, according to Nathanial Warenski, state statistician, USDA NASS, Indiana Field Office. Soil moisture levels increased from the previous week, with 51 percent of topsoil moisture reported as adequate or surplus. The average temperature for the week was 77.1 degrees Fahrenheit, 2.1 degrees above normal for the State.
The amount of rainfall varied from 0.18 to 4.30 inches over the week. The statewide average precipitation was 1.63 inches, 0.85 inches above normal. There were 4.9 days suitable for fieldwork for the week ending Sunday.
Rainfall varied greatly throughout the State. By week's end, some counties remained in dire need of rain while others reported ponding in fields. For most, rain prevented further stress damage to crops, but more rain was deemed necessary to maintain crop condition and progress.
Corn silking remained behind the 5-year average; 47 percent of the corn crop was rated in good to excellent condition.
Soybean blooming progress continued behind the 5-year average with 49 percent of the crop rated in good to excellent condition.
Winter wheat harvest was in full swing.
Pasture conditions fell from the previous week with 37 percent of pasture rated in good to excellent condition. Supplemental hay was used by some if pasture conditions were deemed unsatisfactory.
Other activities for the week included roadside mowing, county fair preparations, and irrigation system maintenance.
Categories: Indiana, Corn, Soybeans, Wheat, Harvesting, Weather