Dry conditions pushing early harvest - KWWL

The continued warm and dry conditions are promoting rapid maturation in Iowa's drought-damaged crops.  As farmers continue to chop corn for silage, farmers are also harvesting grain according to USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, Iowa Field Office.  Some of the farmers who are harvesting for grain are also baling the stalks.

"Crops continue to mature rapidly and harvest is starting to get underway as farmer chop silage and are just beginning corn harvest," said Iowa Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey.  "If the dry weather persists, widespread harvest is likely just a week or two away."

Ninety-one percent of the corn crop has reached the dent stage, ahead of last year's 81% and the five year average of 64%. 50% of the corn crop is now mature, ahead of both last year and the five year average of 11%.

Corn condition is reported at 23% very poor, 32% poor, 32% fair, 13% good, and 0% excellent. 

51% of the soybean crop is turning color, a jump of 32% points from last week. Seven percent of Iowa's soybean fields are dropping leaves, one week ahead of last year.  Soybean condition is reported at 13% very poor, 24% poor, 40% fair, 21% good, and 2% excellent.