Midwest (U.S.)
The Illinois corn crop didn’t quite meet USDA’s expectations of 225 bu./acre, but it hit 204.14 bu. At the same time, Iowa’s soybean crop is putting out big numbers.
Crop conditions continue to fall as extreme weather plagues this year’s growing season.
As of mid-June, nearly 20 counties across four states have already reported fields with tar spot. Timing fungicide applications will be critical to keep the disease from getting out of control.
According to USDA’s latest crop progress report, 91% of corn acres and 78% of soybean acres have been planted. This is the first week the report notes corn condition with 53% good and 30% fair.
USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey says areas that have been experiencing snow drought this winter, such as Minnesota and northern Iowa, could potentially see more snowfall in the next few weeks than they have all winter.
While resilient farmland prices were the theme in 2023 and farmers were in the driver’s seat in most sales, Jim Rothermich with Iowa Appraisal has recently noticed a couple changes in the market.
Midwestern farmer Marcia Ruff, 2023 Top Producer Women In Ag Award winner, splits her time between the classroom and the family farm — setting an example for others to lead from where they are.
In their January 2024 land values report, Farmers National Company shared that the sharp increase in farmland values has slowed, and values are holding strong.
The merger will be effective March 1, 2024.
Combined, the organizations have a reach of over 85,000 producers in eight states.