(SPRINGFIELD) In yesterday’s USDA Illinois Crop Progress Report, there were 2.7 days on average suitable for fieldwork last week. The statewide average temperature was 59.2 degrees last week, 2.6 degrees above normal. Illinois’ precipitation averaged 1.29 inches last week, 0.33 inches above normal. As of Sunday, statewide corn planted hit 32% (compared to the 5-year average of 44%). Soybeans planted was at 33% (compared to the 5-year average of 34%). Winter wheat headed around the state was 23% (compared to the 5-year average of 31%). Winter wheat condition was rated 5% poor to very poor, 34% fair, 50% good, and 11% excellent. Downstate area farmers have been out of the fields for nearly the entire past week due to wet field conditions as very little planting has taken place locally this spring.
