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Iowa sees above normal temps, below normal snowfallIowa Most of Iowa had no need for a snow shovel in December 2011 as the state experienced above normal temperatures and below normal snowfall, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Iowa Field Office, Jan. 3. Tile work as well as some fertilizer application continued throughout the month. Most of December's precipitation came in the form of rainfall. As the month came to a close, topsoil moisture levels rated 24 percent very short, 31 percent short, 44 percent adequate, and 1 percent surplus. The driest area of the state was the northwest corner with 63 percent very short. Grain movement rated 42 percent none, 40 percent light, 16 percent moderate and 2 percent heavy with producers primarily moving grain to fulfill contracts. Availability of hay and roughage supplies was 23 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 7 percent surplus with only 11 percent of the supply in poor condition. Warm weather coupled with a lack of snow has reduced forage needs as cattle do not need to consume as much feed to stay warm and continue to gain weight. Few reports of livestock health issues have been received although pneumonia in cattle has been mentioned. Hog and pig losses in December were 51 percent light, 49 percent average and 0 percent heavy. Cattle and calf losses were similar with 58 percent light, 42 percent average and 0 percent heavy.
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