Farmers across the region have started their field work.  According to the USDA latest weekly crop progress report, as of April 16th, Iowa has already planted seven percent of the state’s corn crop.  Nebraska farmers have two percent of this year’s corn crop planted.  South Dakota remains a bit behind, mainly due to the late winter snow fall that blanketed much of the state last week.  Although small grains hav been planted, so far, no corn has been officially planted.  Minnesota finds itself in a similar position as South Dakota.