Key facts
- South Dakota's average corn yield was estimated at 149.09 bushels per acre by Pro Farmer crop tour participants.
- This corn yield is significantly lower than the previous year and the five-year average.
- Drought conditions in June and July have led to pollination issues in South Dakota's corn crop.
- South Dakota's soybean pod count was recorded at 945.98, below previous levels.
- Ohio's average corn yield was estimated at 180.18 bushels per acre, also below previous averages.
Farmers participating in the Pro Farmer crop tour reported that South Dakota's corn yields are facing pressure from drought and pollination issues, with the average yield estimated at 149.09 bushels per acre. This figure is down significantly from the previous year and below the five-year average, and also trails USDA projections. While disease pressure was minimal, a lack of rainfall in June and July has impacted corn pollination, leading to tip-back and lodging in some areas.
South Dakota's soybean crop has shown more resilience to the dry weather, though yield indications remain below historical levels. The soybean pod count was measured at 945.98, a decrease from the previous year and the trailing five-year average. Farmers noted less disease and insect pressure on soybeans this year, but August conditions will be crucial for final yield development.
In Ohio, crop tour participants observed standing water in fields, which could negatively affect corn conditions and grain filling. The average corn yield in Ohio was pegged at 180.18 bushels per acre, slightly below the previous year and the three-year average. The soybean pod count in Ohio was 1,197.25, also down from 2025 and the recent three-year average, with some plants still in the blooming stage.