According to the Illinois Crop Production Summary Report released last Friday, the state’s crop performance in 2024 showed a mix of increases and decreases compared to 2023.
- Corn: The planted and harvested area for corn decreased by 4% from the previous year. However, the corn yield reached 217 bushels per acre, an increase of 11 bushels per acre from 2023. Overall, corn production in Illinois rose by 2% compared to 2023.
- Soybeans: The planted and harvested area for soybeans increased by 4% from 2023. The soybean yield was 64 bushels per acre, up by 1 bushel from the previous year. As a result, soybean production saw a 6% increase.
- Wheat: The harvested area for wheat dropped by 10% in 2024, with total production falling by 11% from 2023. The winter wheat yield was 86 bushels per acre, a slight decrease of 1 bushel per acre from the previous year.
- Oats: The harvested area for oats remained unchanged from 2023, while production increased by 3%. The oats yield was 93 bushels per acre, an increase of 3 bushels from the prior year.
- Hay: Hay yields saw a slight increase, and total hay production rose significantly by 26% compared to 2023.
These figures reflect a varied growing season with gains in certain crops, including soybeans and hay, alongside some declines in others, such as wheat and corn acreage.