Recently the U.S. Department of Agriculture released the planting progress report for corn acres nationwide.

The report stated that just over 50 percent of the intended acres of corn were planted as compared to the normal 76 percent.

However, the planting pace could increase dramatically with a few good planting days. Locally, the corn planting pace is closer to 30 percent, which is probably just a little behind normal, but producers really can't do much about it other than wait for some dry days.

When it is time to plant and the ground is fit, it really does not take long. Famers need to have the equipment ready to go when the conditions are right.

Dairy producers are being pinched in two ways. First, they can't plant and secondly, they cannot harvest haylage as the fields are too wet. The longer harvest means quality is decreasing with each passing day. The end result is lower production and cash flow shortfalls.

There is no option other than to wait for a change in the weather. Then everything needs done at once. There's manure to haul, fences to fix, cropland to spray, crops to plant, hay to harvest and much more. May is probably the busiest month of the year for most farms.

Hopefully producers will have their equipment ready and adequate labor available when the sun starts to shine.

Producers need to adhere to all safety procedures as many accidents occur after long hours. Short cuts sometimes lead to mistakes. Corn planters are normally four to six row planters but some producers operate 12 or even 16 row planters that cover the acres more quickly.

Planting speeds should be about 4 to 5 mph in the field. Be safe. Safety needs to be the top priority.

A reminder to producers, now is the time to report planted acres. Deadlines are June 16 for small grains and July 15 for all other crops including CREP acreage.

Producers who have questions or need more information can contact the Butler County Farm Service office at 724-482-4800, Ext. 2 or 724-775-2369, Ext. 2.

Luke Fritz is executive director of the Butler County Farm Service Agency.