ELDRIDGE, Iowa (KWQC) - Harvest season is in full swing across eastern Iowa, and for many farmers, this year is bringing a mix of optimism and new challenges.

Combines are rolling and grain carts are filling across the region as farmers work long hours to bring in their crops. Bob Braden, a farmer near Eldridge, says dry weather has made this one of the smoothest harvests in years.

“Harvest is going very well. It’s been nice and dry, so we haven’t had to battle any weather issues,” Braden said. “We’re trying to get it out before we have a windstorm that blows it over.”

But even in a good year, harvest isn’t without its challenges. Yields are slightly lower than in previous seasons, especially for corn, after disease pressure and hot weather affected crop development.

“We’ve been spoile

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