U.S. corn farmers harvested a high-quality crop in 2011, according to a report released by the U.S. Grains Council. With good test weights, low damage and relatively high protein concentrations, the crop will require little drying and store well. The first report of this kind issued by the Council, this initial edition sets a baseline for subsequent annual updates while establishing credible criteria and processes through which to assess the crop.

“The global corn market is increasingly competitive, and the Council believes that the availability of accurate, consistent, and comparable information is in the long-term interests of all concerned,” said USGC Chairman Wendell Shauman. “Improved information will facilitate increased trade – and when trade works, the world wins.”

This report, created to answer buyers’ questions about the quality of the current U.S. crop and assist in making well-informed decisions, adds to the insight offered by the National Corn Growers Association in reports such as World of Corn.

“We are extremely pleased not only by the positive analysis of the crop, but also by the launch of the publication itself,” said NCGA President Garry Niemeyer. “One of the greatest tasks we face as an organization is educating consumers about what corn farmers do, why they do it and on the issues that affect the industry. The Council’s quality report provides the vital information needed to foster productive trade relationships and maintain healthy export markets.”

Source: NCGA