Minnesota
After more than 30 years of farming, Chris Schenk says corn yields are running 15 to 20 bu. per acre above APH, with test weights nearing 61 pounds. But as yields set records, tight grain storage space is now an issue.
Day 4 of the Pro Farmer Crop Tour found a crop with plenty of potential — and plenty of hidden gaps. Fewer ears, shorter grain length and early-season stress are showing up in fields in parts of both states, complicating the yield picture.
Ken Ferrie leads the unsponsored, two-day event focused on crop fertility ROI, weed management and making the 4Rs pay in tight markets.
The Feikemas use cattle and hog waste to fuel 7,000 crop acres, eliminate insecticides and even guide land purchase decisions.
In Becker, Minn., a 20,000-square-foot apple orchard honors fallen Iraq and Afghanistan service members, displaying thousands of dog tags, organized by state, each telling a story.
Now present in seven states, the small pest is taking a toll on soybean crops and making Midwest growers look beyond traditional insecticides for yield protection.
University of Minnesota soybean breeders are working to increase oil content in soybeans from around 22% to closer to 30%, a crop with higher oil that could cater to emerging demand.
Minnesota farmers are hauling in what could be record corn and soybean yields, but low prices and tight storage are squeezing profits. Experts reveal what it means for farm income and strategy in 2025.