Midwest Crop Harvests Advance Despite Drought

Harvesting of corn and soybeans is progressing ahead of the five-year average in several Midwestern states, with Indiana reporting 75% of soybeans and 61% of corn harvested, aided by dry weather conditions. Iowa farmers have nearly completed their soybean harvest at 91% and achieved 68% of corn harvesting, despite facing the second driest October on record, which has led to severe drought conditions affecting soil moisture. In Kentucky, corn harvest is 82% complete, and soybeans are at 54%, both slightly above last year's pace, though dry weather is impacting pasture regrowth. As farmers across these states work to complete their harvests, concerns about drought-related impacts on soil and pasture conditions remain prevalent. With the majority of the harvest ahead of schedule, officials are calling for rainfall to help alleviate drought conditions and support cover crop establishment. Topsoil moisture is reported as inadequate in several areas, which could pose challenges for future planting endeavors.