Corn and Soybean Production Could be Close to Record Highs this Year, USDA Predicts

Sep 16, 2021

This year, the amount of corn and soybeans produced is expected to be the second- and third-highest, respectively, on record.

High yields in both crops are expected in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania, according to a recent report published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The federal government predicts there will be 15 billion bushels of corn and 4.37 billion bushels of soybeans produced this year — a 5.7% increase from 2020.

The top two states by crop production, Iowa and Illinois, are expected to produce 7.4% and 8.4% more corn and 19.7% and 11.6% more soybeans, respectively.
However, extreme weather might affect production in other states.

“Hurricane Ida’s impacts, which included flooding rains, damaging winds, power outages, and a coastal storm surge, were still being assessed,” the USDA said in its report.

The late-August hurricane became the strongest storm to hit Louisiana's coastline and moved through the state’s sugarcane, rice and cotton fields.

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Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Pat Hoffman, Swine Technical Consultant and Elanco Animal Health tells us about the inpact or New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.