Mother Nature has played a key role in helping farmers prepare for some of the busiest days of spring.

According to the most recent USDA Crop Conditions and Progress Report, farmers across the state had just under six days suitable for fieldwork. Spotty showers slowed some progress but still left plenty of time for farmers to cut some crops and plant others.

As a result, farmers are ahead of the five-year average in planting corn, at 82 percent compared to 79 percent, and soybeans, at 75 percent compared to 71 percent. Oat planting is slightly behind schedule at 85 percent complete compared to the five-year average of 87 percent.

Spring tillage also is ahead of schedule at 93 percent complete compared to the average of 88 percent.

Tony Brey of Brey Cycle Farm said crews are busy cutting alfalfa and triticale, two important crops for the farm’s dairy and beef herds in Sturgeon Bay. Brey added the mild temperatures and limited rainfall have allowed farmers to catch up after spring snow and rain prevented them from getting into their fields.

Now, Brey said he would not mind seeing a little rain now that seeds are in the ground.

Brey and other farmers may have to wait a bit longer for their fields to receive some liquid sunshine, with no rain in the forecast through next Wednesday.