The USDA issued its first Crop Progress report since the government shutdown and corn and soybeans harvests appear to be just slightly behind the 5-year average, but not close to last year’s schedule.

As of October 20, USDA reports that 94% of corn is mature vs. the 95% 5-year average and 100% at this time last year. Overall, only 39% of U.S. corn had been harvested compared to the 53% 5-year average and 85% in 2012.

Only 14% of this year’s corn crop is rated as "very poor" (4%) or "poor" (10%), with 70% rated as "good" (43%) or "excellent" (17%).

On average, 94% of the U.S. 2013 soybean crop has dropped its leaves vs. the 97% 5-year average and 98% at this time last year. USDA said 63% of the soybean crop had been harvested as of October 20. This compares with the 69% 5-year average and 79% harvested one year ago. Overall, 67% of soybeans are rated as "good" (44%) and “excellent" (13%). Only 14% rated as "very poor" (4%) or "poor" (10%).