Improved seed varieties, advanced production techniques, and innovative growing practices helped corn growers achieve even higher yields in the 2016 National Corn Yield Contest. Additionally, a record five national entries surpassed the 400-plus bushel per acre mark.
The Corn Yield Contest is in its 52nd year for the National Corn Growers Association. Participation remained strong in 2016, with 7,972 entries received.
18 winners in six production categories had verified yields averaging more than 375 bushels per acre, compared to the projected national average of 175.3 bushels per acre in 2016.
From the north-central Missouri area, three area farmers were highly ranked in the contest. George Quinn of Chillicothe placed first with a corn yield of nearly 265 bushels per acre. Thomas White the Third of Norborne placed third with a corn yield of almost 260 bushels. Both were Pioneer seed and entered the non-irrigated category. Another Chillicothe farmer, Anthony Shreiner placed third in a category for no-till, strip till, non-irrigated, with a yield of 264 bushels per acre using a DeKalb brand of corn.
The National Corn Yield Contest provides corn growers the opportunity to compete with their colleagues to grow the most corn per acre, helping feed and fuel the world. Winners receive national recognition in publications such as a national Corn Yield Guide, as well as cash trips or other awards from participating sponsoring seed, chemical and crop protection companies.
Winners will be honored during the Commodity Classic events in New Orleans March of next year.
