DES MOINES, Iowa ( IOWA CAPITAL DISPATCH ) - Last week marked the first time since mid-June that statewide precipitation levels were below normal, while temperatures were 2-4 degrees above normal for the period, according to State Climatologist Justin Glisan.

Despite the diminished precipitation levels, soil moisture remains high. Crops rated highly during the Aug. 11-17 reporting period, though developments for corn and soybean acres are slightly behind the five-year average, according to the crop progress and condition report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Twenty-seven percent of corn has reached the dent stage, one day behind the average. Nearly 80% of Iowa corn is in the dough stage, making the crop three days behind the average. The crop continues to rate well, however w

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