Kansas soybean yield and value contest 2023 - winners announced

By Scout Nelson

The 2023 Kansas Soybean Yield Contest, despite environmental challenges, saw an impressive turnout with 40 participants, a notable increase from the previous year. The contest, attracting both new and returning entrants, showcased competitive spirit and high yields. 

Inman farmer Brett Froese led the contest with a remarkable yield of 104.2 bushels per acre using Pioneer 42A84E soybeans in the statewide no-till irrigated division. Batchelder Farms from Highland triumphed in the dryland category, producing 101.3 bushels per acre with Xitavo X03922E soybeans. 

The value contest, focusing on the premium over cash value, was topped by Chad Neill of Effingham with Pioneer 39A45X soybeans, achieving a premium of $1.27. 

Other notable achievements included Gary Diveley and Jesse Clark in the north-northeast conventional-till dryland category, and Johnson Ag Inc. leading the north-northeast no-till dryland category. The northeast no-till dryland category was won by Vering Land and Pork with an impressive 90.7 bushels per acre. 

In the north central divisions, Rod Stewart and Ryan Stewart emerged victorious in their respective conventional-till and no-till dryland categories. Robert Litch took the east central no-till dryland category and placed second in the statewide value contest. 

The southeast division saw Roger Draeger, Chris Payne, and Luke Bellar as top performers in the conventional-till dryland category. Dalton Draeger, Bradley and Emily McVey, and Jared Nash led the southeast no-till dryland category. 

Aaron Pauly and Bruce Seiler excelled in the south-central no-till dryland division. The statewide no-till irrigated division saw George Ensz and Menold Farms in the top ranks, while Doug Mills, Chad Penner, and Sam Miller led the conventional-till irrigated division. 

Roger Johnson earned a notable position in the value contest, emphasizing the importance of value-added qualities in soybeans. 

The Kansas Soybean Commission rewarded the highest yields and value contest winners with monetary awards, emphasizing the importance and recognition of agricultural achievements in Kansas. The contest not only demonstrated the farmers' resilience but also their commitment to advancing agricultural practices in the state. 

Photo Credit: istock-urpspoteko