Harvest ’25: Illinois Harvest Hits 11% Completion in Drought Conditions; Producers Eye Fall Farmland Sales

Midwest corn and soy producers are monitoring for disease and lower yields due to the ongoing drought over the last 30 days.

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (RFD-TV) — Combines are rolling nationwide, with corn harvest now 11 percent complete in central Illinois, where farmers are making steady progress while also monitoring farmland markets this fall.

David Klein with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) joined us to provide an update on harvest conditions and land sales in the region.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Klein shared what he’s seeing in Illinois fields so far this season and noted that farmland sales are beginning to line up for the fall. He also discussed key factors that could influence the price direction during harvest, including yields, input costs, and broader market trends.

Klein reported on recent supply activity in Illinois and explained how potential shifts in farmland prices might affect marketing strategies for producers and landowners.

Related Stories
While agriculture doesn’t predict every recession, the sector’s long history of turning down before the broader economy
The ACRE Act modestly reduces farmland borrowing costs now, with more savings possible once federal guidance clarifies which loans qualify.
ARC-CO delivers the bulk of 2024 support, offering key margin relief as producers manage tight operating conditions.
USDA’s steady yields and heavy global stocks keep grains range-bound unless demand firms or South American weather becomes a real threat.
Manure from a hog farm is more than just waste; it is also becoming a key renewable resource for operations.
As economic pressures continue to squeeze agriculture, ag lenders are signaling a more cautious outlook for farm profitability heading into next year, particularly among grain producers facing lower commodity prices and higher operating costs.
The Dairy Checkoff’s new approach to consumer marketing helps farmers bridge the gap between physical vs. digital touchpoints and deliver more end sales.
USDA released the November WASDE Report on Friday, the first supply-and-demand estimate to drop since September, just before the 43-day government shutdown.
China’s cost advantage with Brazilian soybeans and vague public messaging leave U.S. export prospects uncertain heading into winter.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Tim and Sharyn Abbott of the Music City Celebration Sale recap the weekend’s premier auction, which drew top dairy breeders and buyers to Nashville again this year from across North America.
The bill to once again allow schools to offer whole milk and 2% milk will now go to President Trump for approval.
Plans are underway for the 27th annual Great Eastern Iowa Tractorcade, a June event celebrating farm heritage, tractor history, and rural traditions. Event manager Matt Kenney joins us to highlight the importance of commemorating farm heritage.
Farm Legal Expert Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law joins us to share more about the North Dakota court decision and the its larger impact on agriculture.
Fertilizer markets face uncertainty after President Trump raised the possibility of tariffs on Canadian imports, with analysts warning of supply and pricing risks. Josh Linville with StoneX provides a fertilizer industry outlook.
Frigid winter weather and rapid temperature swings have cattle markets watching closely for livestock stress, as analysts say fluctuations pose the greatest risk.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.