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A Smithfield farmer recently won the 59th annual Corn Yield Contest by the National Corn Growers Association. 

Graham Rountree of Smithfield placed second in state in the E: Strip-Till, Minimum-Till, Mulch-Till, Ridge-Till Non-Irrigated Class Class with a yield of 311.9136 bushels per acre. The hybrid used in the winning field was DEKALB DKC68-35. Rountree was one of 552 state winners nationwide. 

NCGA honors farmers from across the country in the Corn Yield Contest. Through their efforts, NCGA members participating in the contest contribute to data on agricultural production.

“Embracing innovation and collaboration, the success of the Corn Yield Contest underscores our commitment to shaping the future of agriculture,” said Harold Wolle, a Minnesota farmer and NCGA president. “Through dedication, adaptation and the use of cutting-edge technologies, our participants redefine excellence and set new benchmarks for the industry. Together, we cultivate a brighter tomorrow, one harvest at a time.”

The 2023 contest participation included 6,882 entries from 46 states. Of the state winners, 27 growers – three from each of nine classes – were named national winners, representing 15 states.

The overall average yield among national winners was more than 374.2246 bushels per acre – more than double the projected 2023 U.S. average of 181 bushels per acre. While there is no overall contest winner, yields from first, second and third place farmers’ overall production categories topped 287.7164 bushels per acre.

All 2023 contest winners were invited to attend the 2024 Commodity Classic Feb. 28- March 1 in Houston.