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A little US – Canada Competition to Boost Wheat Yields

Feb 07, 2025
By Farms.com

Maximize Wheat Yield with Great Lakes YEN

The Great Lakes Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) is a data-driven initiative designed to help wheat farmers understand and enhance their crop yields. Developed in partnership with leading agricultural organizations, the program provides detailed insights into field performance through benchmarking and analysis. 

Participating growers collect and submit data throughout the season, including soil, tissue, and whole plant samples. Once harvest is complete, each farmer receives a comprehensive 35+ page report comparing their farm’s performance with others. This allows them to identify factors affecting their wheat yield and improve their crop management strategies. 

In-person wrap-up meetings are held in Ontario, Michigan, and Kentucky to discuss findings and share insights. Farmers can register early to receive their sampling materials before the February launch. The program also offers networking opportunities, including an upcoming trip to the United Kingdom, where participants will visit farms involved in the UK-based YEN program, established in 2012. 

Each farm’s data remains confidential and is only accessible to the individual grower. The program is supported by various agricultural organizations and sponsors, including Mennel Milling, Ardent Mills, and Michigan Ag Commodities, to help offset costs. 

The Great Lakes YEN continues to encourage farmers to experiment, learn from peers, and improve their wheat yields based on data-backed insights. For more information, visit GreatLakesYEN.com or follow #GreatLakesYEN


Trending Video

Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

Video: Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

A rapidly changing Midwest weather pattern is unfolding in 2026 as areas that recently slipped into abnormal dryness and flash drought conditions are now facing the threat of heavy rain and repeated storm systems.

After a wet spring erased early drought conditions, regions across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and northern Missouri have quickly dried out again since mid-to-late May. Soil moisture is dropping fast, and crops like corn and soybeans are beginning to feel the stress of rising temperatures and lack of consistent rainfall. Now, weather models show a major shift.

A developing system moving in from the Northern Plains is expected to bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms, with the potential for locally heavy rainfall across the Midwest. While some areas may miss out, others could finally see much-needed relief from the growing dryness. In this video, we break down:

Current drought conditions across the Midwest

Why a flash drought is developing quickly

Timing and path of incoming storm systems

Which states are most likely to see heavy rain

How long this wet pattern could last

Will this rain end the drought or create new flooding risks? Watch the full forecast to find out.