By Andi Anderson
Three Michigan farmers were recently honored in the National Wheat Yield Contest for their exceptional yields. Randy Eschenburg (winter wheat, dryland) and Nick Suwyn (winter wheat, irrigated) finished second in their respective categories in the national contest, while Jeffrey Krohn (winter wheat, dryland) finished second in the state contest.
The National Wheat Yield Contest recognizes farmers who achieve high yields of wheat using innovative and sustainable management practices. The contest is divided into four categories: winter wheat, dryland; winter wheat, irrigated; spring wheat, dryland; and spring wheat, irrigated.
This year, the national contest winners averaged a yield of 144 bushels per acre across all categories. Eschenburg achieved a yield of 169.75 bushels per acre in the winter wheat, dryland category, while Suwyn achieved a yield of 171.71 bushels per acre in the winter wheat, irrigated category. In the state contest, Eschenburg had the highest yield with 169.75 bushels per acre, followed by Krohn with 167.06 bushels per acre, and Suwyn with 162.89 bushels per acre.
The national winners will be honored with a trip to the Commodity Classic in February in Houston, Texas, and the accolades will be presented on February 28, 2024, at the National Wheat Foundation Winner's Reception.
The Michigan farmers who were honored in the National Wheat Yield Contest are examples of the dedication and innovation that is driving the wheat industry forward. Their achievements demonstrate the potential of what can be accomplished when the genetics, management, and environment are all aligned in the wheat grower's favor.
Photo Credit: istock-zhaojiankang
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Wheat