By Scout Nelson
The latest USDA Crop Production report for October sheds light on the agricultural outlook for Minnesota, featuring significant changes in corn and soybean production, among other key crops.
Corn Production: Minnesota's corn production is forecasted at 1.47 billion bushels, showing a slight increase compared to the previous year. This projection is based on conditions as of October 1, with an average yield of 179.0 bushels per acre.
However, this yield is down by 1.0 bushel per acre from the September 1 forecast and a notable 16.0 bushels per acre from the previous year. Corn planted acreage is estimated at 8.60 million acres, with an expected 8.20 million acres to be harvested for grain.
Soybean Production: The report indicates a 5 percent decrease in soybean production for Minnesota, with a forecast of 349 million bushels. The yield is expected to average 48.0 bushels per acre, unchanged from the September 1 forecast but down by 2.0 bushels per acre compared to the previous year. The estimated soybean planted acreage stands at 7.35 million acres, with 7.28 million acres intended for harvest.
Other Crops: The report also provides insights into alfalfa and alfalfa mixtures for hay production, with a forecast of 2.24 million tons, marking a 13 percent increase from the previous year. Yield is expected to average 3.20 tons per acre, up by 0.10 tons per acre from the previous year.
However, production of other hay is projected at 784,000 tons, reflecting a 36 percent decrease from last year, with yields expected to average 1.40 tons per acre, down by 0.70 tons per acre from the previous year.
Additional Crop Forecasts: The report encompasses various other crops, including dry edible beans, sugarbeets, sunflowers, and canola, each with its own set of forecasts and projections.
Photo Credit: getty-images-elhenyo
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Sugar Beets, Hay & Forage, Alfalfa, Harvesting