The 2026 Pro Farmer Crop Tour, an annual event that provides an in-depth look at the health and potential of the nation's corn and soybean crops, has kicked off amidst record rainfall and flooding in the eastern Corn Belt. This year's tour, which began on Monday, is a crucial opportunity to assess the impact of extreme weather conditions on crop yields and quality. With scouts traversing fields across seven states, the tour offers a comprehensive view of the crop situation, including the market reaction and expert analysis.
One of the key highlights of the tour is the Pro Farmer Crop Condition Index (CCI), a weighted index that provides a snapshot of the crop's health. The CCI has revealed a decline in corn and soybean ratings, with corn experiencing a 2.67-point drop to 355.72 and soybeans falling 1.89 points. This data underscores the challenges faced by farmers in the region.
The tour's findings have already sparked market reactions, with November soybeans jumping 20 cents to $12.12 1/2, hitting their highest price since July 29. This surge in soybean futures is attributed to concerns over excessive rains and severe flooding, which could impact crop potential. Similarly, December corn rose 6 1/4 cents to $4.89 1/2, the highest close in three months, driven by strong weekly U.S. corn inspections and weather worries.
The tour's western leg, led by Chip Flory, has revealed a suffering South Dakota corn crop, with no viable ears and pollination problems. This is not surprising given the hot weather, which has been a persistent issue. The eastern leg, on the other hand, has been described as 'an incredibly immature crop,' making yield expectations challenging to determine. Tyne Morgan, from U.S. Farm Report, noted high-wind damage but no widespread issues.
In Nebraska, the tour has shown tip back, but the impact varies between counties. Karen Braun, a seasoned Crop Tour scout, reported corn yields averaging 174.4 bu/acre, down 12% from last year, and soybean pod counts of 1141 per 3'x3' plot, down 13%. Bacterial leaf streak has been the most frequent disease sighting, and Lane Akre, Pro Farmer economist and eastern leg Tour leader, noted light disease pressure in Ohio.
The tour's findings have significant implications for the market and farmers alike. With the crop tour providing a field-level look at the damage from high winds and heavy rains, expectations for the crop have been adjusted downward from USDA's previous estimates. The tour's progress and observations are crucial in shaping market trends and guiding farmers' decisions.
As the tour continues, the hope is for quieter weather patterns to allow for much-needed drying time in flood-affected areas. The Pro Farmer Crop Tour is a vital tool for assessing the impact of extreme weather on agriculture, and its findings will have a significant impact on the industry's future.
