By Victor Gomes
According to the latest USDA Crop Progress Report (October 26, 2026), corn harvest in North Carolina was 96% complete, bringing another challenging growing season to a close. The report indicated that 52% of the state's corn crop was rated Poor or Very Poor, with only 14% rated Good or Excellent.
These conditions were reminiscent of 2024, one of the most challenging corn growing seasons in recent years, when nearly 80% of the crop was rated Poor or Very Poor. The silver lining is that, despite the challenging conditions, statewide average corn yields were better than in 2024. North Carolina averaged 87 bu/acre in 2024, compared with an estimated 121 bu/acre in 2026. The 2026 average yield is down 16% from 2025.
Understanding USDA Crop Condition Ratings
First let’s understand the USDA crop condition ratings mean:
- Very Poor: Extreme loss to yield potential; complete or near crop failure.
- Poor: Heavy loss to yield potential caused by factors like drought, excess moisture, or disease.
- Fair: Less than normal condition; yield loss is a possibility, though the extent is unknown.
- Good: Normal yield prospects; adequate moisture with minor pest or weed pressures.
- Excellent: Above-normal yield prospects; crops experience little to no stress.
Based on these definitions, the latest USDA Crop Progress Report indicates that 22% of North Carolina's corn crop was rated Very Poor, suggesting extreme losses in yield potential, including the possibility of complete or near-complete crop failure. An additional 30% was rated Poor, indicating substantial losses in yield potential due to environmental stresses.
Source : ncsu.edu