(SPRINGFIELD) In yesterday’s (8/18/25) USDA Illinois Crop Progress Report, the statewide average temperature last week was 79.1 degrees, 5.4 degrees above normal. Illinois’ precipitation averaged 0.91 inches last week, just 0.02 of an inch above normal. As of Sunday, the state’s corn crop was 99% silking (compared to the 98% 5-year average), corn in the dough stage at 81% (compared to the 5-year average of 79%), and corn denting was at 34% (compared to the 30% 5-year average). Soybeans blooming were at 94% (compared to the 96% 5-year average) and soybeans setting pods were at 87% (compared to the 83% 5-year average). Both crops are still rated mostly in good to excellent conditions, 63% for corn and 60% for soybeans. As local and area farmers and other ag-related workers are still mowing around fields, cutting & putting up hay, and preparing harvest equipment, let’s remember “safety first” out there.
