Need Rain in Some Parts of the State, But Dry Weather Still Stressing Wisconsin Farm Fields

Wednesday, August 5th, 2026 -- 10:00 AM

(Blake Jackson, Wisconsin Ag Connection) Wisconsin farmers had an average of 5.7 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending August 2, 2026, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag Connection, rainfall provided needed moisture across southern and eastern parts of the state, while dry weather continued to affect northwestern Wisconsin.

Topsoil moisture was rated 9% very short, 21% short, 68% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture conditions stood at 7% very short, 20% short, 70% adequate, and 3% surplus.

Corn development remained on schedule, with 72% of the crop reaching the silking stage, matching the five-year average. About 16% had advanced to the dough stage, while overall corn condition declined slightly to 72% rated good to excellent.

Soybean progress continued ahead of normal, with 86% of fields blooming and 53% setting pods. Crop condition held steady, with 70% rated good to excellent. Oats continued to mature, with 93% coloring and 41% harvested.

Winter wheat harvest reached 69%, in line with the historical average. Meanwhile, the third cutting of alfalfa hay reached 50% completion. Overall hay condition was rated 70% good to excellent, while pasture and range conditions slipped to 54% good to excellent compared with the previous week.

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