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Farmers report good corn as harvest advances in Kentucky, Arkansas

Corn harvest is underway in Kentucky and across the Delta, and two farmers tell Brownfield it’s a decent crop.

In central Kentucky, farmer Caleb Ragland says the kernel size has been phenomenal, despite lower and inconsistent ear counts from an inconsistent growing season.

“I’ve heard some of some record yields when you get in south Kentucky and west Kentucky, into west Tennessee. I think the southern Ohio Valley and Tennessee Valley is looking at a good corn crop, overall.”

Ragland says this is the first August corn harvest since 2012, with the dry conditions advancing the crop. He says this week’s hot temps will move things along even more.

“We’re in the mid-20s moisture wise where we’re starting to shell,” he says. “The heat is going to take it way down in the next few days. We like to shell corn when it’s in that 20 to 22 percent range if we can, and try to bring it in quick to give our stalks time to break down a little bit before we plant wheat.”

In northeast Arkansas, Tommy Young says the corn on his farm is being harvested at a decent moisture content, and there are above average yields so far.

“Before Arkansas and northeast Arkansas started experiencing extreme heat waves and droughts, the corner was pretty much made,” says Young.

Both farmers have used recent price strength to forward contract corn. Ragland says some will go to local distilleries or poultry feed, while Young says his corn will be used by the poultry market.

Hear Brownfield’s interview with Caleb Ragland.

Hear Brownfield’s interview with Tommy Young.