The USDA's final Crop Progress report for the season, released on November 25th, marks the end of an eventful and record-setting harvest for many states. Let's take a detailed look at where the corn harvest stands in the nation's top three corn-growing states - Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois.

Unveiling the Corn Harvest Status in Key States

Iowa - A Bountiful Harvest Amid Challenges

In Iowa, the corn harvest for grain is "virtually complete," as reported in the Iowa Crop Progress and Condition report. Despite only having 4.3 suitable days for fieldwork, the harvest reached 98% by the week ending November 24th. This is 2 points ahead of the five-year average of 96%. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig expressed gratitude for another bountiful harvest, despite facing a wet spring, a dry fall, and some challenging severe weather. Record or near-record yields and production for both corn and soybeans, combined with commodity prices not keeping up with costs, highlight the need to expand markets locally, domestically, and internationally. As Iowans gather around the table this Thanksgiving, they should remember the hard work of farmers who make it all possible.The farmers in Iowa have shown remarkable resilience in overcoming various obstacles to achieve such a high harvest percentage. Their dedication and expertise have played a crucial role in ensuring a successful harvest.

Nebraska - The Longest Stretch for the Last 5%

In Nebraska, as noted by Travis Gustafson, a Syngenta agronomist covering central and western Nebraska, the last 5% of corn harvest takes the longest. Some growers leave the corn in the field and harvest it as needed for livestock feed. Others may have faced operational challenges during harvest that prevented them from completing the job. The USDA reported that Nebraska farmers had 5.3 suitable days for fieldwork in the week ending November 24th and 5.7 suitable days the week before. The last reported percentage for corn harvested in Nebraska was 97% by the week ending November 17th, ahead of the five-year average of 93%. Overall, Gustafson anticipates calling it a wrap on corn harvest around December 1st as they are ahead of prior years at this point in November.The unique challenges faced by Nebraska farmers during the harvest season add to the complexity of the agricultural landscape. Their ability to adapt and make the most of the available conditions is truly remarkable.

Illinois - Almost Wrapped Up with Post-Harvest Activities

In Illinois, the last reported percentage for corn harvest progress was 97% for the week ending November 10th. Comparing this to last year's final report for the week ending November 26th, 2023, when the USDA said Illinois' corn harvest progress had reached 99%, it's a fair estimate that Illinois' corn harvest is essentially wrapped up. Wyffels Agronomy Manager Ryan Gentle in Marietta, Illinois, mentioned that post-harvest activities like tillage and anhydrous application are in full swing in the state.Illinois farmers have efficiently managed their harvest operations, and now they are focused on the next steps in the agricultural cycle. Their attention to detail and timely actions contribute to the overall success of the farming industry.