Derek Fuemmeler has been farming with family all his life. He farms in Howard, Chariton and Randolph counties, with a diversified farm operation. He also works as a certified crop advisor and provides crop consulting services.

Forty acres at a time. That seems to be the planting motto this year. Constant rain showers have been putting a damper on a consistent run. However, some corn and beans have both been put in. Some corn has emerged. Storms last week produced minimal to substantial rainfall. We did see some planters start up Sunday afternoon (April 19) while others, just a mile or two away, were waiting for the puddles to dry up. Wheat and rye are very lush and healthy but soon will look for drier conditions themselves. Pastures and hayfields look bountiful.

The week started off with a few planters able to get in the fields. More and more joined throughout the week until Thursday night (April 23). Then the rains hit. It wasn’t a gusher, so some were able to run Saturday and Sunday. But Sunday evening rain will definitely keep us out of the seat for at least the start-to-middle of this week. Seeing more corn emerging and some soybeans starting to emerge. Early wheat varieties are heading out.

Another wet week, but definitely not a lazy one. Many of us found ourselves in the basements Monday morning (April 27). Tornados and heavy winds caused damage across much of the area. Trees, limbs, buildings, etc. were scattered in fields and on fences. Cleanup will carry on into this week and the weeks to come. Fieldwork was only done by the flyers this past week. Many headed-out wheat fields were receiving fungicide applications. A few curious planters crept into the fields late Saturday and Sunday, but the future forecast looks to be a grim one for their continuance. Hefty rain chances throughout the week look to stall progress once again. Pastures are flourishing though!