Wheat test weights are lower than we would like. Typical test weights are around 55 pounds per bushel. Local elevators stopped testing for scab early into harvest however, recent discoveries of moderate vomitoxin levels in grain already received could lead to a re-start of testing at delivery. While you are filling your bins this summer, take a look at 2001 futures prices for wheat. After adjusting for basis this leaves local farmers with an opportunity to sell at a profit, even if it is a modest profit.
Corn continues to develop unevenly.
One field I scouted this week had corn tasseling, corn 2 leaves from tasseling, and corn 7 leaves from tasseling. I am forecasting yields about 12 bushels below last year's production on many farms if the weather holds in a favorable pattern. A period of hot, dry weather will hurt our shallow rooted corn crop and could drop yields further. Only a few farms have uniform corn stands that will provide top yield across the farm. Also, look for higher grain moisture levels because of uneven crop development.