(SPRINGFIELD) In yesterday’s USDA Illinois Crop Progress Report, there 5.9 days suitable for fieldwork on average last week around the state. Illinois’ average temperature was 81.4 degrees last week, 7.3 degrees above normal. The statewide average precipitation was o.51 inches last week, 0.97 inches below normal. As of Sunday, 9% of the state’s corn crop was silking, just ahead of the 5-year average of 5%, with the corn crop 71% in good to excellent condition. Soybeans blooming were at 21%, compared to the 5-year average of 13%, with 54% of the soybeans in good to excellent condition around the state. The winter wheat harvest is at 69% complete, compared to the 73% 5-year average. With last night’s much needed rain area farmers are still reminded to continue thinking “safety first” while working outdoors.
