Iowa farmers saw limited opportunities for fieldwork as wet and stormy conditions dominated the first full week of April, according to the latest crop progress report.
The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service reported just 2.9 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 5, slightly below last year. Corn and soybean planting remained at 0% complete statewide.
Topsoil moisture levels improved, with 63% rated adequate and 14% surplus, while only 23% was considered short or very short.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Naig, says farmers continue to face economic pressure from high input costs and low commodity prices but noted spring brings optimism for the growing season.
A series of storms brought widespread rain and severe weather across the state, including large hail and an EF-1 tornado in eastern Iowa. The statewide average precipitation reached 2.31 inches, well above normal for early April.
Despite delaying fieldwork, the moisture is expected to help replenish soil conditions following a dry winter.
