YESTERDAY’S USDA ILLINOIS CROP PROGRESS REPORT

(SPRINGFIELD) In yesterday’s USDA Illinois Crop Progress Report, there were 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork on average around the state last week. The statewide average temperature was 65.0 degrees last week, 5.5 degrees below normal. Illinois’ precipitation averaged 0.04 inches last week, 0.59 inches below normal. As of Sunday, corn in the dent stage in Illinois was at 82% (compared to the 5-year average of 75%), corn now mature was at 40% (compared to the 5-year average of 24%), and corn harvested for grain around the state was at 2% (compared to the 5-year average of 1%). Soybeans dropping leaves was at 35% (compared to the 5-year average of 11%) and soybeans harvested around the state was at 1%. Both crops are still mostly in good to excellent condition statewide, with corn at 75% and soybeans at 70%. Farmers are reminded to “think safety” first during the area fall harvest.