Entering the NCGA National Corn Yield Contest just got easier. For the second year, corn growers entering the nation’s premier agricultural production competition can register online.

In addition to online registration, growers can register by downloading the forms from NCGA’s Web site. Growers can also obtain registration forms by calling Judy Hall at 636-733-9004, ext. 129; or by e-mail.

“The contest gives growers a chance to test some management practices they have learned over the years while maintaining costs and efficiency,” says NCGA President Ken McCauley. “We encourage them to test techniques that could make a difference in yields for the future. I’ve done it myself, and I know it isn’t easy. However, the announcement of the contest results is a high point each year. Not only because we all want to win, but more importantly, because we want to see the results to find out who’s our ‘best of class’ and learn how they did it.”

The initial deadline for entries is July 2. Preregistration entries must be postmarked by July 2; the fee is $75 per hybrid. The registration fee increases to $105 per hybrid with after the preregistration deadline. 1. Entry forms are posted on the NCGA Web site.

Growers can register online. The online form uses security enhancements to register with confidence. Entry forms are also available for download. Contest rules also are available on the entry forms.

Winners of this year’s NCYC will be honored at the 2008 Commodity Classic, the combined convention and trade show of NCGA, the American Soybean Association and the National Association of Wheat Growers, Feb. 28 -March 1, in Nashville, Tenn. Along with national recognition, winners receive prizes from participating seed and crop protection companies.

Growers can enter nine categories: A Non-irrigated; AA Non-irrigated; A No Till/Strip Till Non-irrigated; AA No Till/Strip Till Non-irrigated; No Till/Strip Till Irrigated; A Ridge Till Non-irrigated; AA Ridge Till Non-irrigated; Ridge Till Irrigated; and Irrigated. Last year’s contest gathered 3,154 entries from 46 states. The average yield from all entrants was 216.67 bushels per acre, and 287.09 bushels per acre from the farmers who placed first, second and third nationally in the respective categories.

For more information on this year’s NCYC, contact Judy Hall or Max Starbuck at 636-733-9004 or by e-mail.

SOURCE: NCGA news release.