Recently, the US National Corn Growers Association announced the winners of the 2025 National Corn Yield Contest, highlighting the cutting-edge technologies and exceptional management practices in U.S. corn production. The competition featured nine categories based on different tillage methods and irrigation conditions, showcasing the highest levels of corn productivity achievable today.
David Hula from Charles City, Virginia, emerged as the overall champion in the highly competitive Category H (Strip, Min, Mulch, Ridge-Till Irrigated) with a remarkable yield of 572.2589 bushels per acre, equivalent to approximately 2394.72 kg/mu. This achievement underscores the potential of advanced irrigation and precision farming techniques.
Record Yields Across Diverse Farming Systems
The contest results demonstrated that high yields are attainable under both irrigated and non-irrigated conditions.
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Irrigated Systems:
The Hula family dominated the irrigated category, with David Hula and his son Craig Hula (second place, 538.8726 bushels/acre) both planting Pioneer’s P18216PCUE hybrid. Their success was attributed to refined irrigation management combined with strip-till practices, pushing the boundaries of corn productivity. -
Non-Irrigated Systems:
Even in the core Corn Belt states without irrigation, yields exceeded 425 bushels per acre (approx. 1778.49 kg/mu). Kevin Kalb and Ryland Kalb from Dubois, Indiana, winners in Categories B and D (Non-Irrigated Corn Belt), achieved these results using DEKALB’s DKC68-35RIB variety. Their accomplishments prove that superior genetics and adaptive management can deliver exceptional yields even under rainfed conditions.
Dominance of Elite Hybrids
DEKALB and Pioneer hybrids stood out as the preferred choices among top performers. DEKALB’s DKC68-35 series exhibited broad adaptability across irrigated and non-irrigated categories, while Pioneer varieties demonstrated exceptional potential under optimized irrigation and nutrient management. This trend reinforces the critical role of high-performing genetics in achieving yield breakthroughs.
Insights for Global Corn Producers
The 2025 contest offers valuable takeaways for corn growers worldwide:
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Genetic Excellence as the Foundation:
Selecting hybrids tailored to local conditions—such as Pioneer P18216PCUE for irrigated systems or DEKALB DKC68-35RIB for rainfed environments—is essential for unlocking yield potential. -
Precision Management Unlocks Potential:
Champion yields were achieved through the integration of advanced tillage (e.g., strip-till, no-till) with precise irrigation and nutrient management. Even in non-irrigated systems, conservation practices and soil health management played pivotal roles. -
Knowledge Sharing Drives Progress:
The contest serves as a platform for disseminating innovative practices, accelerating the adoption of technologies that enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience in corn production.
Conclusion
The 2025 National Corn Yield Contest not only celebrates exceptional achievements but also charts a path for the future of corn production. By combining elite genetics with tailored agronomic practices, farmers can continue to push yield boundaries, contributing to global food security and sustainable agriculture. As David Hula’s record-breaking yield demonstrates, the synergy of science and stewardship remains key to unlocking the full potential of every acre.
