By Scout Nelson
The 2024 Kansas Corn Yield Contest has produced record-breaking numbers in both dryland and irrigated categories. One successful entry from Doniphan County reached 340.39 bushels per acre in the dryland division, surpassing previous benchmarks.
Another top contender from the same area led the irrigated category with 328.98 bushels per acre. In total, more than twenty very impressive entries exceeded the 300-bushel mark, showcasing the high level of competition observed this year.
According to the Director of Grower Services and Market Development, numerous records were shattered, including the highest irrigated yield and the unprecedented count of entries surpassing 300 bushels per acre.
This official also highlighted the introduction of a special nitrogen management class, which acknowledges innovative tactics to optimize fertilizer usage. One competitor from Nemaha County led this class with a 256.7091-bushel dryland yield, demonstrating that producers can continue to improve practices and maximize production with thoughtful resource management.
The 2025 Kansas Corn Symposium will honor both state and district winners on January 30 at the Salina Hilton Garden Inn. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., followed by a luncheon, afternoon program, and dinner.
A formal recognition of yield contest winners will take place after the evening meal. Growers may register to attend online or by phone, ensuring they can join a day of celebration and knowledge sharing.
This annual contest is sponsored by Kansas Corn and K State Research and Extension. Awards are given to outstanding dryland and irrigated entries across ten districts, including recognition for the nitrogen management class.
In addition, one statewide dryland winner and one statewide irrigated winner are announced. The contest underscores how strategic practices, research, and collaboration can push yield limits while prioritizing sustainability and farm profitability.
Organizers encourage participants to share data gathered during the growing season, allowing Kansas farmers to benchmark their yields and refine operational techniques. By focusing on continuous improvement, these efforts contribute to a more secure and progressive agricultural landscape.
Industry leaders hope the knowledge gained from record-breaking yields and smart resource management will spark innovations in corn production and pave the way for even higher achievements in future contests.
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Categories: Kansas, Crops, Corn, Sustainable Agriculture