Soybean fields across Wisconsin are nearing the final stretch, as this week’s USDA Crop Progress report shows encouraging — though slightly delayed — progress for the 2025 soybean crop.

After a warm, dry week that offered 6.1 days suitable for fieldwork, soybean growers in parts of the state took full advantage of the ideal harvest conditions. 

Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board President Jonathan Gibbs, who farms near Fox Lake, says harvest is just kicking off on his farm. “If the weather stays decent, we should be rolling fairly well next week,” he said.  “I would say in the general area those that planted on the early side are getting rolling pretty good so there are beans coming off. As you head south, they’re in full harvest mode.” 

Across the state, 94% of soybeans have turned color, a strong indicator that maturity is near. Meanwhile, 70% of fields have dropped their leaves, putting the crop four days behind last year and two days behind the five-year average.

The harvest is just beginning, with 6% of soybeans harvested so far. While that number may seem small, this early activity is critical as growers monitor moisture levels and weather patterns closely for optimal timing.

Soybean condition remains solid, with 79% of the crop rated good to excellent—only a slight drop from last week. This speaks to the resilience of this year’s crop, despite some lingering moisture concerns. Topsoil moisture was rated 6% very short and 18% short, while subsoil moisture rated similarly, with 5% very short and 18% short — conditions that growers are watching closely as the season progresses. 

Elsewhere in the fields, corn silage harvest is wrapping up quickly, opening the door for cover crop planting and manure application — both important for preparing next season’s soybean fields.

As October approaches, Wisconsin farmers are eyeing the calendar and the skies, hoping for continued dry conditions to keep the combines rolling.

“If the dry weather holds, the beans should continue to mature and dry down nicely, and we’ll be able to keep the combines moving,” Gibbs said.