Richard Guebert. Jr., Illinois Farm Bureau president, said Illinois farmers need significant, widespread rain over the coming weeks to ensure a healthy crop. (Tim Alexander, WCBU)
Illinois Farm Bureau President Richard Guebert Jr. and Adams County Farm Bureau President Brent Clair spoke with WCBU (NPR) about ongoing drought conditions. Guebert stated, "We've got to have some rain right now. If we don't get some rain, we're darn sure not going to have a record crop. We're in dire straits not only in southwestern Illinois where I farm, but all across the state of Illinois."
Clair joined a roundtable discussion with WCBU, which included Illinois Corn Growers Asosciation and Illinois Soybean Association, about drought and crop yields. Clair said the ship may have sailed for corn in regard to achieving USDA’s lofty yield projection. “We’ve already lost our top yield,” he said. “We’re looking at probably 175 bushels per acre of corn in Illinois right now, and that's if all the rains even come for the rest of the year. There’s no way we’re going to be able to match 2022 national or state yields.”
Read or listen to the full interview and article here.