The Influence of Climate On Days Available for Field Work: Trends and Economic Implications, 1980-2010.

Field work days data are collected weekly throughout the growing season by the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Crop Reporting District level data from 1980-2010 for Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri are combined with weather data over the same period to analyze historical trends in field work opportunities and better understand the relationship between weather and days available for field work.  Temporal trends are identified and the economic benefits and costs associated with this trend are evaluated.  Emphasis is placed on the planting and harvest periods within the growing season.