564 



IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 



T indicates an amount too small to measure, or less tlian .005 inch precipita- 

 tion, and less than .05 inch snowfall. 



DECEMBER. 



This was the warmest December in the 29 years state-wide records 

 have been compiled and was in striking contrast with December, 1917, 

 wliich was the coldest. Tlie excess in temperature was rather evenly 

 distributed over the State and averaged 8.8 degrees. Precipitation was 

 evenly distributed and slightly above normal, the largest excesses being 

 in the southeast counties, particularly portions of Mahaska, Louisa and 

 Van Buren. Deficiencies occurred in the west-central counties and nortli- 

 east to the Mississippi River. 



Frost left the ground early in the month. The mild weather with pre- 

 cipitation above normal through the fall put roads in the worst condition 

 in many years. As they were practically impassible for heavy traffic, com- 

 paratively little corn or other farm produce was marketed. Aside from 

 this, outdoor occupations made unusual progress; fall plowing which had 

 been delayed by labor shortage was brought up to or above normal, con- 

 tinuing in the north till the 21st, and in the south till the 24th; and corn 

 husking was practically finished. Winter wheat made good growth and 

 was pastured some in the southwest to check over-growth. Heavy snow 

 covered the southeastern part of the state on the 24th, amounting to a foot 

 or more in several counties. The ground was not frozen when the grow- 



