Nearly 7800 entries highlight record yields and farming excellence nationwide
The National Corn Growers Association has announced the winners of the 2025 Yield Contest, recognizing exceptional achievements by corn farmers across the United States. Favorable growing conditions supported a projected record corn crop, allowing participants to deliver outstanding results.
Now in its 61st year, the Yield Contest attracted nearly 7,800 entries from farmers representing 47 states. Growers competed across 10 production categories, with verified yields averaging an impressive 269 bushels per acre. The contest continues to serve as a trusted benchmark for measuring progress in corn production and farming practices.
The highest yield recorded in 2025 came from Charles City, Virginia. Farmer David Hula achieved an outstanding yield of 572.2589 bushels per acre in the Class H strip-till irrigated category. This achievement highlights how advanced management practices, technology, and careful planning can significantly increase productivity.
"The Yield Contest is really about finding out what this crop is capable of,” said Jed Bower, Ohio grower and NCGA President. “And as corn farmers, we get to show what we’re made of, too. It challenges participants to find innovative ways to succeed and contribute to decades of agronomic data that prove that American farmers are great at what we do.”
In total, 30 national winners and 567 state winners were selected in the 2025 contest. These farmers demonstrate the resilience, dedication, and skill that define U.S. agriculture. Their success also reflects decades of research, shared knowledge, and continued improvement in farming techniques.
All national and state winners will be formally recognized by the NCGA during Commodity Classic in San Antonio, Texas, scheduled for February 25 through 27, 2026. A complete list of winners is available on the NCGA website.
Photo Credit: national-corn-growers-association