By Andi Anderson
A USDA report from the Great Lakes Regional Office predicts a significant improvement in Michigan's 2024 winter wheat yield. While total production is expected to decline due to reduced harvest acreage, yield forecasts project a rise to 87 bushels per acre, 4 bushels higher than 2023. This optimistic outlook is bolstered by the crop's health, with 74% rated good to excellent compared to 53% last year.
Nationally, the winter wheat picture is similarly encouraging. Production forecasts anticipate a 4% increase over 2023, with an average yield exceeding the previous year's mark and reaching 51.4 bushels per acre. Several states, including Montana, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, are poised for record-breaking yields.
Favorable growing conditions are credited with these positive developments. As of June 2nd, nearly half (49%) of the winter wheat crop in major producing states was rated in good to excellent condition, a significant improvement over 2023.
The national heading rate (83%) is also exceeding historical averages, suggesting an accelerated progression towards harvest.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dleonis
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Wheat