(SPRINGFIELD) In yesterday’s USDA Illinois Crop Progress Report, the statewide average temperature last week was 73.8 degrees, less than a full degree (0.3) above normal. Illinois’ average rainfall was 0.55 inches last week, 0.11 inches below normal. As of Sunday, corn in the dough stage was at 92% (compared to the 87% 5-year average), corn denting was at 59% (compared to the 50% 5-year average), and corn rated mature came in at 3%. The soybeans setting pods were at 91% (compared to the 88% 5-year average) and beans dropping leaves were at 2% (compared to the 1% 5-year average). The majority of both crops are still rated mostly good to excellent around the state, 61% for corn and 58% for soybeans. Farmers are still reminded to think “safety first” as they and other ag-related workers stay busy and prepare for the upcoming fall harvest.
