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
Prompt removal of Christmas trees and careful handling of decorations reduce winter fire risk during an already high-demand season for emergency services.
AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
China continues to buy U.S. soybeans toward its 12 MMT commitment, as analysts cite data gaps, delivery timing questions, and muted market reaction.
Higher ethanol blend rates translate directly into stronger, more durable corn demand if regulatory momentum holds.
Trade uncertainty—especially regarding soybeans—continues to weigh on future outlooks, even as farm finances and land values remain resilient.
Strong export demand supports feed grain prices, but drought risk and seasonal patterns favor disciplined early-year marketing.

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.