Rain Hinders Fieldwork in Wisconsin's Farm Fields

Thursday, September 5th, 2024 -- 9:01 AM

(Blake Jackson, Wisconsin Ag Connection) Wisconsin had 4.8 days suitable for fieldwork statewide during the week ending September 1, 2024.

According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag Connection, while the rain was beneficial for agricultural activities, it also hindered fieldwork in certain areas. Farmers were able to make progress with harvesting small grains, potatoes, picking apples, and cutting hay.

The topsoil moisture condition was assessed as 2% very short, 14% short, 72% adequate, and 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 0% very short, 11% short, 79% adequate, and 10% surplus.

Corn: 82% of the corn crop reached the dough stage, slightly behind last year but ahead of the 5-year average. Forty-three percent of the corn has entered the dent stage. Scattered reports of corn silage harvesting were noted. Corn condition remained at 65% good to excellent.

Soybeans: Ninety-five percent of the soybean crop was setting pods, and 18% of the soybeans were coloring, ahead of last year and the average. Soybean condition was rated 61% good to excellent.

Oats: Oats were 92% harvested, surpassing both last years and the average progress. Winter Wheat: Winter wheat planting has commenced and reached 5% completion.

Hay: The third cutting of alfalfa hay was 93% complete, and the fourth cutting was 30% complete. All hay condition was rated 78% good to excellent. Potatoes: Potato harvest was 34% complete, and condition remained at 90% good to excellent.

Pasture and Range: Pasture and range condition was rated 61% good to excellent. Overall, Wisconsin's crops are progressing well, with favorable conditions for most crops. However, farmers continue to monitor weather conditions and adjust their field activities accordingly.

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