With over 90 percent of harvest complete in Iowa, reports show the 2016 growing season goes in the books as another productive year for Iowa farmers, and the mild fall weather has been ideal for the establishment of post-harvest cover crops.  A comprehensive analysis of Iowa agriculture is detailed in a new book released by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), compiled by the Iowa office of the National Agricultural Statistics Services (NASS).

The 2016 Iowa Agriculture Statistics book shows that Iowa farmers led the nation in corn production last year, with Iowa farmers accounting for more than 15 percent of the U.S. corn crop.  The data, based on surveys and questionnaires completed by Iowa farmers from across the state, also show that Iowa’s 2015 soybean harvest was the largest in the nation, accounting for nearly 12 percent of the nation’s soybean production.  Additionally, Iowa holds the top spot nationally in pork and egg production and ranks second nationally in red meat production. 

“The most recent ag statistics highlight just how productive Iowa farms are.  Yields across the state were much above average in 2015,” said Dave Miller, IFBF director of research and commodity services.  “Many counties recorded all-time record yields in both corn and soybeans.”  Additionally, Miller noted the latest statistics show Iowa farmers continue to increase our dominance in pork and egg production and expand significantly beef and other livestock and poultry production in the state. 

The 119-page book includes information regarding crops, livestock and farm economics to help guide farmers’ planning and decision making for future years.  The statistical profile of Iowa agriculture includes state level information as well as county specific data. 

“The story behind the new data is that Iowa farmers are providing consumers with an abundance of wholesome, diverse food choices while continuing to produce more food using fewer resources, which benefits the environment,” said Craig Hill, IFBF president. “This degree of productivity is not possible without innovation and being good stewards of the land.  The 2016 Ag Stats book quantifies what an agriculture powerhouse Iowa is, where agriculture is the engine driving the state’s economy and providing one in five Iowa jobs.”

The book costs $12 and can be ordered from the Marketing and Communications Division, Iowa Farm Bureau, 5400 University Avenue, West Des Moines, Iowa 50266.  Checks should be made payable to the Iowa Farm Bureau.