The week ending September 24, 2023, presented suitable conditions for fieldwork in Nebraska with 5.4 days being optimal, as reported by the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. These favorable conditions are reflected in the progressing harvest and promising conditions of various crops.
Inspecting the moisture supplies, topsoil had 21% rated very short, 29% short, 48% adequate, and a surplus of 2%. Subsoil followed closely with 29% very short, 35% short, 34% adequate, and a 2% surplus.
Delving into the Field Crops Report, corn showcased a mixed condition but encouraging maturity and harvest rates. 70% of corn reached maturity, slightly ahead of last year's 68% and surpassing the five-year average of 64%. The harvested corn was reported at 15%, showing progress compared to last year's 12% and the average of 10%.
Soybeans also exhibited progress, with 86% dropping leaves, surpassing both last year’s and the average rate of 79%. The harvest rate stood at 14%, consistent with the previous year and slightly above the average.
Winter wheat planting progressed significantly, with 60% completed, notably ahead of last year’s 37% and the average of 51%. The emerged rate was 15%, showing advancement compared to last year's 4% and the 9% average.
Sorghum displayed favorable conditions and maturity, with 45% reaching maturity, slightly ahead of last year but near the average of 47%. The harvest rate was reported as equal to both last year and the average, at 6%.
Dry edible beans were not far behind, although slightly lagging in dropping leaves and harvested rates compared to the previous year. Their overall condition remained commendable.
Pasture and range conditions were reported as mixed but included a good and excellent rate totaling 40%.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Harvesting