Every year farmers take a risk when they plant crops in the spring. This year brought about a different set of risks with export and tariff uncertainties, but farmers still rolled out some impressive yields in the National Corn Growers Association’s National Corn Yield Contest. And it’s hardly a surprise who was — again — at the top of the yield charts.
In its 61st year, U.S. farmers pushing the limits of corn production, as the contest drew nearly 7,800 entries from 47 states, with verified yields averaging 269 bushels per acre.
The NCGA announced the 2025 Yield Contest winners today, with David Hula once again taking top honors at 572 bushels per acre and nearly 7,800 entries showcasing America’s corn-growing innovation.
David Hula of Charles City, Virginia, achieved the staggering 572.26 bushels per acre in Class H (strip-till irrigated), the highest yield of the year, following his record-setting 623.84 bushels per acre last year. Other standout national winners excelled across 10 production categories, demonstrating innovative approaches and resilience despite challenging conditions.
“The Yield Contest is really about finding out what this crop is capable of,” said Ohio grower and NCGA President Jed Bower. “And as corn farmers, we get to show what we’re made of, too. It challenges participants to find innovative ways to succeed and contribute to decades of agronomic data that prove that American farmers are great at what we do.”
Winners receive national recognition in publications such as the NCYC Corn Yield Guide, as well as trips or other awards from participating sponsoring seed, chemical and crop protection companies. The 30 national and 567 state winners will be honored at Commodity Classic in San Antonio, Texas, February 25–27, 2026. Farmers and industry supporters will gather to celebrate record-setting achievements and the dedication behind America’s corn industry.
Visit the National Corn Growers Association for the complete list of National and State winners.
