There were 7 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending Oct. 20, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Illinois Field Office. Statewide, the average temperature was 51.2 degrees, 2.7 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 0.03 inches, 0.69 inches below normal.
Topsoil moisture supply was rated 24% very short, 49% short, and 27% adequate. Subsoil moisture supply was rated 18% very short, 46% short, and 36% adequate.
Corn harvested for grain reached 67%, compared to 65% last year, and the five-year average of 59%.
Soybeans dropping leaves reached 96%, compared to 99% last year, and the five-year average of 96%. Soybeans harvested reached 76%, compared to 75% last year, and the five-year average of 67%.
Winter wheat planted reached 60%, compared to 66% last year, and the five-year average of 64%. Winter wheat emerged reached 33%, compared to 30% last year, and the five-year average of 29%.