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Pro Farmer Crop Tour scouts report lower corn yields and variable soybean pod counts across the U.S. Corn Belt

The Pro Farmer Crop Tour has begun its annual assessment of the U.S. Corn Belt, with early results indicating a materially weaker corn crop than the previous year. Scouts reported average corn yields of 180.18 bushels per acre in Ohio and 149.09 bushels per acre in South Dakota, representing significant drops from last year's figures. While soybean pod counts also declined in these states, the eastern leg of the tour is currently navigating a flood corridor where heavy rains have caused standing water and lodged corn. In Nebraska, scouts noted that while corn yields are down due to missing stalks and ear population problems, the soybean crop remains solid with adequate moisture. Conversely, the eastern leg in Indiana and Illinois is facing increased disease pressure from Northern Leaf Blight and localized storm damage. Market reactions have been mixed, with November soybeans trading higher on the Farmer Crop Tour results while December corn futures saw slight pressure. The tour will continue to provide the first hand-measured evidence of whether current ear counts and kernel rows support the national yield estimates provided by the USDA.

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