Widespread rainfall last week provided much-needed moisture to some stressed areas of the state. Rain ranged from nearly zero to more than 5 inches in some areas, according to the most recent report from the Great Lakes regional office of NASS.

In his weekly "Crop Advisory Alert," Michigan State University extension field crops educator in north-central Michigan Paul Gross reported most of the region received adequate rainfall during the past two weeks.

"Crops have progressed with the timely rains, but most farmers are more worried about heat accumulation this growing season," he reported. "Based on the MSU Linwood Enviro-weather station, we have accumulated 1,750 growing-degree days currently, with the six-year average at 1,979. This puts the corn crop at risk if we have an early frost."

Michigan’s corn is in a wide range of growth stages, ranging from early pollination to early milk. Farmers reported corn condition is 72 percent good to excellent, compared to 69 percent last year.

"We simply need warm weather in September and early October to get this crop mature," Gross added.

Farmers also are reporting favorable progress in their soybeans, with 64 percent good to excellent, compared to 69 percent last year.

"Soybeans seem to have turned the corner," he reported. "After a slow start, many farmers are pleased with how the crop is progressing. Most are reporting good pod set and are fairly optimistic about yield potential."

Wheat harvest is complete and most of the straw has been baled. Oats and barley harvest is under way, with farmers reporting good yields. Hay harvest continues with third-cutting alfalfa wrapping up for farms that chop their hay. Dry hay harvest has been stalled by recent rain, but with drier weather forecasted, farmers hope to be back in the fields soon.