The end is in sight for this year’s U.S. corn and soybean harvests. Harvest weather last week was mixed, with delays in parts of the Midwest and Plains from precipitation, including snow in parts of the region. In addition, portions of the eastern Midwest are experiencing overall wetter than normal conditions, which is also slowing down hard red winter wheat planting in those areas.
The USDA says that as of this past Sunday, 91% of this year’s U.S. corn crop is harvested, compared to 84% a week ago and a five-year average of 86%, while 92% of soybeans are harvested, compared to 87% last week and 93% on average.
A total of 94% of winter wheat is planted, matching the usual pace, and 81% has emerged, compared to 83% normally in mid-November, with 46% of the crop in good to excellent condition, up 1% on the week.
A total of 65% of cotton is harvested, compared to 64% on average.
EDITOR’S TAKE:
Sounds like it’s almost a wrap for the 2021 harvest. Once the grain and cotton are in the bin or bale, farmers will quickly turn their attention to tax planning. This is a huge opportunity to help them avoid sending more to the IRS than legally necessary. They will also be planning their strategies for 2022 and what they will need for next spring. As a CAD member, you can help them with both. The purchase of a new or qualifying used truck can avail them to section 179 depreciation and likely lower their tax burden. AgPack, on the other hand, can help them with their strategy of how to offset rising input costs for things like fertilizer, livestock trailers or equipment, tires for their tractors, trucks, planters, etc. Right now, is a critical time for you to reach out to farmers/ranchers in your area. Whether through social media, radio or tv ads, personal contact, however you do it – do it NOW. Not sure how to start? CAD has some resources that can help develop a plan and even execute on that plan. Contact your CAD Dealer Service Advisor today for details (See contact information listed below or on thecertifiedagdealer.com website). They’re friendly and won’t bite – I promise!
