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Quick pace and good yields highlight southeastern Illinois harvest

A southeastern Illinois farmer says it’s been a smooth harvest in his area so far.

Matt Raben, who grows corn and soybeans in Gallatin County, says he’s around half finished bringing the crop in.

“We started probably 4 weeks ago, which is a little above our average, so moving along okay, we did get a little bit of rain, but yields are above our averages.”  He says, “So, it’s been a good harvest.”

He tells Brownfield it’s been a nice change of pace following back-to-back years of dealing with flooded fields.

“Last year I think we got maybe half the crop planted and most of that was planted in late June, so very late for us, very big turn of events.”  He says, “We needed a big win.”

Statewide, the USDA says 26% of the corn crop is harvested, 9% ahead of average pace, with 60% in good to excellent condition, 97% dented, and 83% mature, while 21% of soybeans are harvested, 7% ahead of average, with 60% in good shape and 79% dropping leaves.  Six percent of winter wheat is planted with 1% emerged.

AUDIO: Matt Raben – Illinois farmer