The Maryland Soybean Board is excited to announce the launch of its first-ever Maryland Soybean Yield Contest, a pilot program for the 2025 growing season designed to showcase the skill, innovation, and resilience of Maryland’s soybean farmers.

The new contest recognizes the top soybean yields in three categories—Full Season, Double Crop, and Dryland—while also gathering valuable production information to help all farmers learn from each other’s successes. Winners in each category will receive a $1,000 prize and be recognized at the Maryland Commodity Classic on July 23, 2026, at Queen Anne’s 4-H Park in Centreville, MD.

“This contest gives Maryland farmers the chance to be recognized for their achievements while helping us share innovative practices across the state,” said Eddie Boyle, Chair of the Maryland Soybean Board. “By celebrating high yields and good management, we’re also highlighting the importance of soybeans in Maryland agriculture.”

How It Works

  • Farmers may enter one Full Season and one Double Crop
  • Each contest plot must consist of two contiguous acres in one block.
  • Harvest checks must be supervised by a University of Maryland Extension agent, USDA, or Soil Conservation District employee, who will measure, verify yields, and confirm official results.
  • All entries must be harvested and submitted by December 15, 2025.

The contest is open to all Maryland soybean growers, including current Directors of the Maryland Soybean Board. Entry is $30 per field. Yields will be corrected to 13% moisture and 1% foreign matter, in accordance with USDA standards.

By entering, participants agree to share production details such as seed variety, planting date, crop protection methods, and fertility practices. This information will help the Maryland Soybean Board identify production trends and provide valuable insights to farmers across the state.

For more information, contest rules, or to enter online, visit www.mdsoy.com/yield-contest

Maryland farmers grow about half a million acres of soybeans, producing more than 20 million bushels of beans each year. With a value of nearly $200 million to the state’s economy, soybeans are one of Maryland’s top crops. For more information on MSB, visit www.mdsoy.com.

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For More Information:
Danielle Bauer Farace, Executive Director
Maryland Soybean Board
443-812-4526  |  danielle@mdsoy.com
www.mdsoy.com