By Andi Anderson
The Great Lakes Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) has announced the winners for the 2023-2024 winter wheat competition. Established in 2021, the Great Lakes YEN brings together farmers and organizations across the U.S. and Canada to improve winter wheat yields through better data analysis and knowledge-sharing.
This year’s participants saw impressive results despite facing a challenging growing season.
Farmers in Michigan and Ontario achieved the highest yields, with top honours going to growers who demonstrated exceptional attention to crop management.
The highest yield awards went to participants who produced over 170 bushels per acre, demonstrating how effective management practices can significantly boost winter wheat performance.
In addition to yield, the Great Lakes YEN also tracks farmers’ yield potential, recognizing those who maximize available resources.
This year, participants who achieved more than 100% of their potential yield were recognized for their efforts to capture light energy, utilize water resources, and optimize harvest efficiency.
Despite delayed planting due to persistent rains in the fall of 2023, a mild winter led to strong crop survival and early green-up.
Farmers dealt with increased insect and disease pressure throughout the growing season but managed to achieve an average yield of over 115 bushels per acre.
The Great Lakes YEN has now completed four project years, fostering collaboration among farmers and industry experts. The program provides participants with detailed reports on over 200 data points, offering insights into how they can continue to enhance their winter wheat production.
Wrap-up meetings scheduled for January and February will give participants the opportunity to share successful farming practices with their peers.
Farmers interested in joining the 2024-2025 Great Lakes YEN can find more information and register at the program’s website. Registration will close on January 31, 2025.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sveta
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Wheat