Last week, Wisconsin experienced temperatures that were closer to what is normal for this time of year. During that time there were several days of light rain and heavy fog that came with the normal temperatures. This weather further complicated harvest activities as the damp conditions made fields slippery in some areas as well as causing unfavorably high corn for grain moisture levels. According to the most recent USDA, Wisconsin Crop & Progress report there were 4.5 days suitable for fieldwork last week during the change of weather.
The report also found that the Wisconsin topsoil moisture supplies were rated 0 percent very short, 4 percent short, 86 percent adequate and 10 percent surplus last week. Then the subsoil moisture supplies were rated 1 percent very short, 5 percent short, 87 percent adequate and 7 percent surplus.
Then looking at the corn harvested for grain last week the it was recorded to have reached 69 percent complete. This is 12 days behind the average. The moisture content of corn harvested for grain averaged 21 percent.
Soybean harvest is close to completion as it was reported at 94 percent complete, 11 days behind last year, and 8 days behind the average.
The Wisconsin winter wheat emerged was also reported at 96 percent complete, 2 days ahead of last year. The winter wheat condition was reported 83 percent good to excellent, 2 percentage points below last week.
Then the fall tillage in the badger state was reported at 58 percent complete, 7 days behind the average.
Wisconsin farmers need to see dry, sunny days and frozen soils to help bring the corn and soybeans harvest to completion.
For the full USDA, Wisconsin Crop Progress & Condition report visit, https://www.nass.usda.gov