DES MOINES, Iowa ( IOWA CAPITAL DISPATCH ) - Temperatures across the state of Iowa were near the climatological normal, though precipitation was below average as parts of the state slid into dry conditions for the close of harvest season, according to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

The IDALS weekly weather report also noted Iowa experienced its first widespread frost during the Oct. 20 through Oct. 26 reporting period.

Crop progress and condition data, typically shared by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is unavailable during the current government shutdown.

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said the state typically has less than 10% of soybeans left to harvest and less than 25% of corn acres still in the fields by the last week of October.

“The dry

See Full Page