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A little US – Canada Competition to Boost Wheat Yields

Feb 07, 2025
By Farms.com

Maximize Wheat Yield with Great Lakes YEN

The Great Lakes Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) is a data-driven initiative designed to help wheat farmers understand and enhance their crop yields. Developed in partnership with leading agricultural organizations, the program provides detailed insights into field performance through benchmarking and analysis. 

Participating growers collect and submit data throughout the season, including soil, tissue, and whole plant samples. Once harvest is complete, each farmer receives a comprehensive 35+ page report comparing their farm’s performance with others. This allows them to identify factors affecting their wheat yield and improve their crop management strategies. 

In-person wrap-up meetings are held in Ontario, Michigan, and Kentucky to discuss findings and share insights. Farmers can register early to receive their sampling materials before the February launch. The program also offers networking opportunities, including an upcoming trip to the United Kingdom, where participants will visit farms involved in the UK-based YEN program, established in 2012. 

Each farm’s data remains confidential and is only accessible to the individual grower. The program is supported by various agricultural organizations and sponsors, including Mennel Milling, Ardent Mills, and Michigan Ag Commodities, to help offset costs. 

The Great Lakes YEN continues to encourage farmers to experiment, learn from peers, and improve their wheat yields based on data-backed insights. For more information, visit GreatLakesYEN.com or follow #GreatLakesYEN


Trending Video

Do Cold Temps Impact Emerging Corn & Soybeans? | Pioneer Agronomy

Video: Do Cold Temps Impact Emerging Corn & Soybeans? | Pioneer Agronomy

A cold snap swept across west central Minnesota and eastern South Dakota, bringing frost, fog, and temperatures dipping into the 20s—raising urgent questions about early crop damage.

Pioneer Agronomist Eric Rice breaks down what those overnight temperatures could mean for emerged corn and soybeans, how to assess frost injury, and why patience is key before making any replant decisions. Learn the critical differences between corn and soybean growing points, what cosmetic vs. serious damage looks like, and how last week’s high winds may also be influencing what you’re seeing in the field.

Watch for:

• Frost thresholds for early-season crop damage

• Why corn may be more resilient than it looks

• Soybean growth stages and frost susceptibility

• How to evaluate brittle stems and discolored tissue

• Why waiting 4–5 days before assessing stand loss matters

• When to contact your local Pioneer agronomist or sales representative