Local experts cautiously optimistic for a decent harvest

     Crops throughout Franklin and southern Cerro Gordo County are still playing catch-up following this spring's heavy precipitation and late planting season.

     Local agriculture experts stressed the need for dry weather and warm temperatures throughout the month of August. Keith Pillatzki, agronomist at Agvantage's Franklin County locations, said rainfall in May and June set up area corn and soybean plants for decent fall yields so long as precipitation stays at bay this month. Though many fields were planted late, Pillatzki felt most area crops were still on pace for a relatively productive harvest.

     "Most crops are progressing nicely. The late corn is doing the best it can. It's playing catch-up right now, but some of it's starting to tassel," he said.

Pillatzki estimated that only 5 percent of the Franklin County's crop was in excellent condition. The large majority—60 percent or so—is average to slightly below average, he said. The rest, however, was below that. He felt 25 percent was well under average for this time of the growing season with the remaining 10 percent in very poor condition.

Read the full article in the Aug. 7 edition of the Hampton Chronicle.