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Temps fluctuated widely in JanuaryIowa Temperatures fluctuated widely in January with temperatures dipping below zero as well as rising near 60 in some areas, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Iowa Field Office. Drought conditions continue across the state as little precipitation fell in January. As January came to a close, topsoil moisture levels rated 46 percent very short, 44 percent short, 10 percent adequate, and 0 percent surplus. The driest area of the state was the southwest corner with 58 percent very short. Over half the land is reported to be very short of moisture in 4 of the 9 districts in the state. Northwest, north central, west central and southwest Iowa all report 52 percent or more of the land is very short of moisture. Grain movement rated 41 percent none, 40 percent light, 18 percent moderate and 1 percent heavy. January had few weather events causing interruptions to grain transportation. Availability of hay and roughage supplies fell to 47 percent short, 52 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus with 33 percent of the remaining supply in good condition. Livestock conditions have been reported as normal. Hog and pig losses in January were 20 percent light, 79 percent average and 1 percent heavy. Cattle and calf losses were 22 percent light, 77 percent average and 1 percent heavy. Although wide temperature fluctuations have caused some stress for cattle, livestock conditions have generally been normal. Cattle have been grazing on stocks following the melting of December's snow. Date: 2/18/2013
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