(BLOOMINGTON) ILLINOIS FARMERS HAVE BEGAN THEIR WHEAT HARVEST
Illinois wheat harvest is now underway, with farmers getting started earlier than usual this season.
According to the latest USDA Crop Progress and Condition Report released June 8, approximately 4 percent of Illinois winter wheat has been harvested. That pace is ahead of the five-year average of 1 percent for this point in the season.
In surrounding counties, combines began rolling last week, with yields appearing strong and potentially exceeding the farm’s historical averages. Growers are also working to harvest wheat before additional rainfall affects grain quality and test weights.
As harvest continues, farmers have also started planting double-crop soybeans. The USDA currently rates 73 percent of Illinois’ winter wheat crop as good to excellent.