By Scout Nelson
In Nebraska, farmers are successfully pushing through their harvest season despite persistent dry soil conditions. The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service reports that, for the week ending October 27, farmers had 6.5 days of optimal fieldwork, which they used effectively to advance various crops.
Topsoil and subsoil moisture levels are particularly low, with 84% of topsoil and 80% of subsoil rated as short or very short. Nevertheless, harvest progress is strong, with the corn harvest reaching 79%, which is well above both last year’s rate and the five-year average.
Soybean harvests are nearly complete, at 94%, ahead of historical averages. The Sorghum harvest is also advancing steadily at 71%, maintaining a lead over the average progress rates for this time of year.
Winter wheat planting is largely complete, though the crop's emergence rate is somewhat below average, with 81% emerged.
The crop’s condition varies, with 31% rated as good, while others face more challenging conditions. Nebraska’s dry edible bean harvest is nearly finalized, closely matching historical trends.
Pasture and range conditions remain affected by the dry soil, with a majority of areas rated poor to very poor, presenting challenges for livestock management.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-awakr10
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Sorghum