News

Iowa field activity starting to pick up

Snow, ice and rain limited fieldwork across much of Iowa last week, but there were some positive signs heading into this week.

“As I traveled the state last week, I saw lots of farmers getting into the field and the co-ops are reporting that spring activities are ramping up quickly,” said Iowa ag secretary Mike Naig. “With warmer temperatures on the way, we expect farmers to start planting this week.”

As of Sunday, 16 percent of the expected oat crops had been planted, four days ahead of last year but a week behind the five-year average.

Pastures continued to green up slowly with very little livestock placed on pasture ground. Overall, livestock and feedlot conditions have improved. However, in the Northwest District there were reports that recent weather conditions stressed livestock and caused respiratory issues.

As of Sunday, topsoil moisture levels rated 45 percent surplus and 55 percent adequate. Subsoil moisture levels rated 48 percent surplus and 52 percent adequate.