Missouri soybean harvest behind schedule

Farmers in Missouri have been battling Mother Nature for most of the year, following several months of less than ideal conditions for crops.

While weather seemed to cooperate through the spring months, one of the worst droughts since 2012 gripped the state. It came during a critical period for crops, which caused damage to many fields. Since then, wet conditions, abnormally cold temperatures, and snow have delayed harvest across the region.

The latest USDA report released November 13 shows that just 75% of soybeans planted in the state have been harvested, a significant drop from the 85% reported this time last year. While the next few days will cooperate for farmers as they head out to the fields, the quiet conditions won’t stick around long.

Current trends keep the cool weather we’ve been seeing around through the rest of the month, which could mean trouble for some farmers, especially if rain or winter weather accompanies the cool conditions.

While Soybean harvest is down, the USDA is expecting 4.6 billion bushels this year, which would be the largest ever.

Time will only tell how long the Soybean harvest will limp along, which on average comes to an end at the end of November.

Stay with ABC 17 News as we continue to monitor the latest trends and follow us on Twitter @ABC17Stormtrack.

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