By Scout Nelson
Kansas recorded a historic corn production year in 2025, as the Kansas Corn Yield Contest reported the highest average yields in its history. Across all contest entries, corn yields averaged more than 250 bushels per acre, showing strong crop performance and effective growing practices statewide.
The contest includes irrigated and dryland classes across ten districts. It also features a special nitrogen management class that highlights improved nutrient use practices. Results showed that both irrigated and dryland regions experienced outstanding harvest outcomes, proving that strong crop management strategies continue to raise corn production standards in Kansas.
Several entries in the irrigated class exceeded 325 bushels per acre, marking an important milestone for the state. These results demonstrate how improved seed selection, irrigation planning, and nutrient management are helping Kansas corn growers achieve higher productivity while maintaining environmental responsibility.
"Once again, we saw record bushels from across the state in this year's contest. Our Kansas farmers produced corn yields that averaged 251.84 bushels/acre across all KCYC entries. That’s impressive considering many growers faced greater disease pressure than normal,” according to Kansas Corn Eastern Kansas Grower Services and Programs Manager Kylie Massengale, who manages the contest. “We also had multiple entries from every district in Kansas, which doesn't happen every year."
Winners from both irrigated and dryland classes will be recognized at the 2026 Kansas Corn Symposium, scheduled for January 29 at the Salina Hilton Garden Inn. The event will include educational sessions, a luncheon, and a formal recognition dinner.
The Kansas Corn Yield Contest was developed to highlight successful production practices and to encourage knowledge sharing among corn producers. Data collected through the contest is used to benchmark yields and identify methods that improve sustainability, crop health, and profitability.
By sharing production results and management strategies, the contest supports continuous improvement across Kansas in agriculture. These record yields show how education, innovation, and community collaboration can lead to better crop outcomes, stronger harvests, and long-term success for agricultural communities across the state.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dale-fornoff
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Corn