By Blake Jackson
As Wisconsin soybean farmers gear up for planting season, they’re also preparing to compete in the Wisconsin Soybean Association’s (WSA) 2025 Soybean Yield Contest.
This annual contest is designed to encourage innovative management practices and highlight the importance of sound cultural practices in soybean production. It offers farmers a chance to showcase their dedication to improving their operations.
“Fundamentally, the Wisconsin Soybean Yield Contest allows growers to showcase the practices that they’re applying on their farm that maximize yield and profitability,” said WSA Director Shawn Conley, a professor in the agronomy department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
The contest is open to any soybean production system in the state, with winners selected from each of the four geographical divisions based on long-term county soybean yield averages.
Two winners will be chosen from each division. In addition to these main awards, other recognitions include the Planting Green Award, the New Contestant Award, and induction into the WI 100 Bushel Soybean Club.
To participate, interested growers must submit their entry forms by August 31, 2025. Winners will be celebrated at the 2026 Wisconsin Corn•Soy Expo.
“Any farmer should enter the contest; there are opportunities for those that have been in it for a long time and have continued tweaking their production practices. We also have a category for someone that’s new to the contest and for farmers that are really focusing on conservation practices,” Conley said.
“There’s plenty of room in the tent for everyone to join and participate because it’s great to learn from your fellow farmers and be recognized for what you’re doing on your farm.”
Now in its 15th year, the contest is supported by the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board and soybean checkoff dollars. “Wisconsin’s soybean growers are diligent stewards of the land and savvy businesspeople,” said WSA Executive Director Adam Kask.
So, if you think your operation has the potential to produce a winning crop, visit wisoybean.org for more details and submit your entry form. As Conley emphasized, “You can’t win if you don’t enter. It’s an opportunity to have fun, learn, and grow.”
Photo Credit: istock-sandramatic
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Soybeans