Ohio Farmer

Corn Growers Report Solid Crop

Despite rain, Ohio ahead of the curve on corn planting.

June 16, 2008

1 Min Read
Farm Progress logo in a gray background | Farm Progress

According to the latest crop reports, the USDA estimates that Ohio has 100% of the projected areas of corn in the ground. 92% of the corn has already emerged, compared to the five-year average of 97% at this time.

"Despite a wet, cold spring, the USDA estimates that 91% of the corn crop is in fair and excellent condition," says Dwayne Siekman, executive director of the Ohio Corn Growers Association.

Projected areas of corn planted in Ohio are 3.3 million acres, still above historical averages. Last year growers planted 4 million acres, which was up 22 percent from 2006.

"Ohio corn growers are ahead of the curve nationwide in planting," Siekman says, "and we're still planting enough corn for food, feed and fuel."

This year five ethanol plants have opened in the Buckeye State with two more expected to come online by the end of the year. Corn growers primarily grow field corn to feed cattle; the majority of Ohio's corn is exported for feed while around 20% of the crop goes to ethanol plants.

"Our primary goal is to grow corn for feed," said Siekman. "Last year corn growers saw a 10% carryover of corn, which shows ethanol is one more market growers need to sell their corn."

Subscribe to receive top agriculture news
Be informed daily with these free e-newsletters

You May Also Like