Rainfall Improves Soil Conditions Around Much of the State

Wednesday, June 17th, 2026 -- 9:00 AM

(Blake Jackson, Wisconsin Ag Connection) Wisconsin farmers had an estimated 3.4 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending June 14, 2026, as rainfall improved soil moisture conditions across much of the state, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag Connection, while the precipitation benefited crops, some areas experienced storm-related damage. Topsoil moisture was rated 2% very short, 14% short, 74% adequate, and 10% surplus.

Subsoil moisture conditions were similar, with 2% very short, 15% short, 73% adequate, and 10% surplus. Crop development continued to advance ahead of historical averages.

Corn emergence reached 93%, exceeding the five-year average of 89%, while crop condition improved slightly, with 80% rated good to excellent. Soybean emergence reached 91%, ahead of the average pace of 85%, and crop condition remained steady at 79% good to excellent.

Oat emergence reached 97%, with 35% of the crop headed. Oat condition improved to 84% good to excellent. Winter wheat also showed strong progress, with 83% headed and 9% beginning to color, while its good-to-excellent rating climbed to 78%.

Alfalfa producers had completed 86% of the first cutting, ahead of the average pace, and overall hay condition improved to 75% good to excellent. Pasture and range conditions also strengthened, with 67% rated good to excellent statewide.

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