Iowa farmers have faced a little bit of everything this summer. Extended stretches of heat have increased stress on crops and livestock, while scattered thunderstorms have brought much-needed rainfall to some areas and flooding, hail, and damaging winds to others. With corn moving through pollination, weather remains one of the biggest factors influencing yield potential.
Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig says he’s been traveling across nearly every corner of the state in recent weeks. While he’s seen some isolated damage from severe weather, he says the overall crop continues to look promising.
Naig says recent weather has also provided some relief during this critical stage of the growing season. Cooler overnight temperatures have helped reduce stress on both crops and livestock, while periodic rainfall has kept much of the state in good condition.
As August approaches, Naig says Iowa’s crop still has plenty of growing left to do. Continued heat, along with timely rainfall, will be key to preserving the strong yield potential many farmers are seeing today.
While isolated storms have taken a toll in some communities, Naig says Iowa’s crops continue to perform well overall. As the calendar turns to August, he says farmers will be watching for timely rainfall and moderate temperatures to help carry the crop through the remainder of the growing season.
