By Scout Nelson
Nebraska farmers planted a record 10.3 million acres of corn in 2025, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). This figure marks a 2% increase from last year and surpasses the previous high recorded in 2021.
Soybean acres in Nebraska are estimated at 5.0 million, a 2% decrease compared to last year. Combined corn and soybean acreage is down by 100,000 acres statewide, indicating slight shifts in planting decisions. Nationally, corn acres are reported at 95.2 million—the third-largest total since 1944—while soybean plantings fell to 83.4 million acres, down 4%.
Overall, 19.275 million acres in Nebraska were planted to crops or hay, which is down 1% from 2024 and nearly 3% below the recent high of 19.8 million acres in 2021. Wheat acres also declined by 40,000 to 960,000, and hay acreage dropped by 5%.
Despite the overall acreage reduction, crop health remains strong. As of June 30, nearly 80% of Nebraska’s corn acres and 70% of soybean acres were rated in good or excellent condition by NASS. This suggests that, with continued favorable weather, Nebraska could be on track for a record corn harvest in 2025.
The data highlights a notable shift in crop focus, with more land being committed to corn production while other crops like soybeans and hay see reductions. These changes may be influenced by crop market trends, profitability, and environmental conditions.
The USDA will continue to monitor crop progress throughout the season. With strong early-season ratings and record corn acreage, Nebraska’s 2025 growing season is shaping up to be one of the most productive in recent history—if weather continues to cooperate.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-oticki
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Hay & Forage, Weather