By Scout Nelson
Nebraska farmers made steady harvest progress during October 2026, benefiting from 6.1 days suitable for fieldwork. Dry edible bean harvest reached 92% completion, putting growers slightly ahead of the five-year average.
Among Nebraska's major crops, dry edible beans remain the closest to harvest completion. In contrast, corn, soybean, and sorghum harvests continue to trail their typical pace despite favorable field conditions.
Winter wheat planting was nearly finished by late October, with 95% of intended acreage planted. Crop emergence reached 80%, matching the average pace and providing a solid start for the new season.
Soil moisture conditions remained generally favorable across the state. Most topsoil and subsoil moisture levels were rated adequate, supporting both harvest operations and winter wheat establishment.
Corn harvest reached 55% completion but remained below the five-year average of 64%. Crop conditions were mixed, with 41% rated good to excellent and 24% rated poor to very poor.
Soybean harvest advanced to 75% complete during October 2026. However, progress continued to lag behind the five-year average of 82%.
Sorghum harvest showed the largest delay among major crops. Only 35% of the crop had been harvested, well below the five-year average of 59%, while crop maturity also remained behind normal levels.
Pasture and range conditions varied across Nebraska, with many areas rated poor to very poor. A smaller share of rangeland received good or excellent ratings.
The crop progress data were compiled using county-level reports from the USDA Farm Service Agency, Nebraska Extension, and agricultural reporters statewide. Nebraska Extension played a key role in providing agronomic expertise and documenting harvest and crop conditions across the state.
Photo Credit: getty-images-pixelift
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Sorghum