Michigan Soybean Association Names 2025 Yield Contest Winners

By Andi Anderson

The Michigan Soybean Association has announced the winners of the 2025 Michigan Soybean Yield Contest, recognizing soybean farmers across the state for outstanding production achievements.

This marks the fifth year the association has facilitated the contest, which promotes innovation, best management practices, and productivity in soybean farming.

In 2025, the contest received 145 entries from soybean growers throughout Michigan. Winners were officially announced on December 15 and will be recognized during the Michigan Soybean Association’s 52nd Annual Meeting of Members on January 27.

The contest is organized in partnership with the Michigan Soybean Committee, which previously facilitated the contest for 14 years. The program continues to grow as more farmers participate each year to showcase advanced farming techniques and improved crop performance.

The 2025 Yield Contest was supported by several industry sponsors, including 3G Seeds, Asgrow, Beck’s, Channel, DF Seeds, Dairyland Seed, Dynagro, Golden Harvest, Pioneer, Renk Seed, Xitavo, and ZFSelect. Their sponsorship helps ensure the continued success of the program and supports farmer recognition.

The winners for the 2025 contest include:

• Terry Peters of Tuscola County earned first place in the Late Maturity non-irrigated category (2.7 and above) with a yield of 80.15 bushels per acre.
• Matt Sharp of St. Joseph County won the Late Maturity irrigated category (2.7 and above) with a yield of 91.54 bushels per acre.
• Ryan Zelinko of Allegan County achieved first place in the Mid-Maturity non-irrigated category (2.0 to 2.6) with a yield of 101.55 bushels per acre.
• Nick Suwyn of Saginaw County secured first place in the Mid-Maturity irrigated category (2.0 to 2.6) with a yield of 100.29 bushels per acre.
• Jarred Finnerman of St. Joseph County was recognized in the Early Maturity category (1.9 and below) with a yield of 94.67 bushels per acre.

Each winner will receive a commemorative plaque along with a $1,000 cash prize in recognition of their achievements.

The Michigan Soybean Yield Contest highlights the dedication of soybean farmers who adopt advanced farming practices and focus on improving yields while maintaining sustainable operations.

Additional information about the contest and detailed harvest results can be found through the Michigan Soybean Association’s official website.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski