Nebraska Corn Farmers Poised to Plant 10.6 Million Acres in 2025

April 22, 2025 LINCOLN, Neb. – According to the March Prospective Plantings report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Nebraska corn farmers are expected to plant 10.6 million acres of corn in 2025. If realized, this would translate to a significant economic investment of nearly $3.1 billion in the state's economy over a two-month period, as calculated by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's crop budgets. This investment includes inputs such as seed, fuel and fertilizer, but excludes land costs, labor and equipment.

"The upcoming planting season represents a substantial investment for Nebraska corn farmers," said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB). "As farmers prepare to plant, they are mindful of the challenges posed by weather conditions and are committed to producing high-quality crops."

Nebraska farmers typically begin planting corn in mid-April and aim to finish by mid-May, weather permitting. The timing and pace of planting can significantly impact crop yields, soil health, and overall farm productivity. The latest Crop Progress report issued by the USDA (released April 15, 2025) showed Nebraska farmers are just starting to plant, with 1% completed with corn planting, typical of the five-year average (1%). 

"As we kick off planting season, I encourage everyone to be mindful of farm equipment on our rural roads," said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board and farmer from Giltner. "We want our farmers to come home safe to their families at the end of each day. Let's work together to ensure a safe planting season – farmers, please exercise caution when moving equipment, and drivers, please slow down and pass safely when encountering slow-moving farm vehicles.”

The Nebraska Corn Board is funded through a producer checkoff investment of a one-cent-per-bushel checkoff on all corn marketed in the state and is managed by nine farmer directors. The mission of the Nebraska Corn Board is to increase the value and sustainability of Nebraska corn through promotion, market development and research.