As corn growers prepare for harvest, the corn crop condition in many parts of the nation is ahead of last year’s condition, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Corn Crop Condition Ahead of Last Year’s Pace, NCGA Notes (9-6-06)

The condition of the national corn crop remained ahead of last year’s condition at this time, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service Crop Progress Report released on Monday, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) notes.

Sixteen percent of the crop is in excellent condition, four points above the 12 percent recorded in 2005. Forty-three percent is in good condition, four points ahead of last year. Twenty-five percent of the crop is in good condition. Meanwhile, 6 percent of the crop is considered very poor and 10 percent is labeled as poor. In 2005, 9 percent was very poor and 14 percent poor.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is predicting a 10.97 billion bushel crop for the upcoming harvest.

“Corn producers are excited for the potential of this fall’s harvest to be the third largest crop on record,” said NCGA President Gerald Tumbleson. “Unfortunately, we have had some producers experience drought conditions in a couple areas. But the department of agriculture’s harvest projection indicates corn growers will be able to supply all of our markets for this year.”

The percent dough, dented and mature corn are almost exactly the same as last year at this time.

To view the report, visit www.nass.usda.gov.