Rainfall totals of 400%‑600% of normal levels across Iowa this past week have created “excessively wet” conditions that are holding up the start of the 2026 corn and soybean harvest. State climatologist Justin Glisan reported a statewide weekly precipitation total of 2.05 inches, more than an inch above the normal 0.84 inch.
USDA crop progress shows early harvest lagging
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s latest crop‑progress report for the Sept. 7‑13 period shows that only about 2% of Iowa’s corn acres have been harvested so far. While 38% of corn acres have reached maturity—right on the five‑year state average—the figure is 7 percentage points behind the 2025 crop. Slightly less than 90% of corn acres have entered the dent stage, and 76% of the corn crop is rated good to excellent.
For soybeans, the typical harvest rate by this time of year is roughly 1%, yet the report indicates that no beans have been harvested yet. Twenty‑two percent of the soybean crop has begun dropping leaves, which is 10 points behind last year and 6 points behind the five‑year average. Soybeans are rated 74% good to excellent.
Governor’s proclamation eases transport limits
In response to the early‑season conditions, Governor Kim Reynolds issued a harvest proclamation on Sept. 10 that allows vehicles transporting certain agricultural products to exceed standard weight limits. The measure is intended to help farmers move grain and other crops more efficiently once the fields begin to dry.
Farmers advised to focus on preparation
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig noted that additional rain is expected in the coming days. He encouraged producers to use the downtime to complete other farm tasks, such as getting equipment ready for the upcoming harvest window.
Beyond the wet soil, the state also experienced above‑average temperatures this week, with a weekly average of 71.2 °F—about five degrees warmer than normal. The combination of excess moisture and warmth presents both challenges and opportunities for growers as they plan the next steps in the harvest calendar.
Local impact and outlook
Western and central portions of Iowa saw the heaviest rain, with Guthrie Center recording a weekly total of 7.76 inches. Those conditions have delayed field access for many farm operators, pushing back the timeline for planting equipment and grain trucks.
Despite the setbacks, the USDA’s quality ratings suggest that the crops remain in good condition, giving farmers confidence that once the soil dries, yields should be strong. State officials continue to monitor weather patterns and will provide updates as the harvest season progresses.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
