Iowa Farmers in Harvest Season Urged to Prioritize Safety and Mental Health
As harvest season gets underway in Iowa, with over 65% of corn acres reaching maturity, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is urging farmers to prioritize both physical and mental health amidst the demanding work. The latest crop progress and condition report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture highlights the advancement of the harvest.
Farm Safety During Harvest Season
In recognition of National Farm Safety and Health Week, Secretary Naig emphasized the importance of safe equipment operation practices, proper protective gear, machinery inspection and maintenance, and staying safe around grain bins. He also reminded drivers to be cautious of slow-moving farm equipment on roadways.
“It’s also important to acknowledge that the long, stressful workdays and economic challenges facing agriculture can take a toll,” Naig said. “I encourage farmers and ag workers to be mindful of their mental health and well-being, and to watch out for their neighbors too. No one needs to feel alone. There are resources readily available for Iowans.”
Drivers are encouraged to stay alert, avoid distractions like cell phones, and maintain a safe distance from farm equipment to prevent accidents.
Mental Health Resources for Farmers
Recognizing the stress associated with harvest season, Secretary Naig highlighted resources available to support farmers' mental health. Engaging in hobbies, prioritizing sleep, and talking to family, friends, or mental health professionals are crucial steps. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach also offers farm stress resources.
- Iowa Concern Hotline: confidential mental health support at 1-800-447-1985
- Your Life Iowa: help with alcohol, drugs, gambling, mental health or suicidal thoughts at 855-581-8111, or text 855-895-8398
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: immediate crisis support via call or text at 988
Harvest Progress and Crop Conditions
Despite wet conditions limiting field work to an average of five days, 8% of Iowa corn acres have been harvested, surpassing both last year's and the five-year average. Corn and soybeans were both rated 74% good to excellent for the September 15-21 reporting period.
| Crop | Rating (Good to Excellent) |
|---|---|
| Corn | 74% |
| Soybeans | 74% |
Soybean harvest has commenced in some areas, though not enough to be reflected in the report. The state's soybeans are showing progress with 62% dropping leaves and nearly 90% colored.
Soil Moisture and Weather Conditions
Soil moisture conditions slightly improved during the reporting period. Topsoil moisture was 70% adequate, and subsoil moisture was 72% adequate. Less than 20% of topsoil and subsoil conditions were short on moisture.
State Climatologist Justin Glisan reported an average of nine-tenths of an inch of precipitation, slightly above normal. Temperatures across the state were 8.6 degrees Fahrenheit above normal, averaging 71.6 degrees for the week.
