South Dakota Soybean Production Yield and Land Use Trends 1961-1986

Since 1960 major changes in management practices (row spacing, fertilization, new varieties, herbicides, new crops, fewer general farms, more mechanization, new tillage systems) climatic shifts, economic factors, and government programs have caused dramatic shifts in the acreage planted, yield, market demand, and total production of soybeans. As a result, a study was initiated to identify changes in yield, lan4 use, and total soybean production by county in South Dakota. The objectives of this study were to:1. prepare and develop a data base of country soybean acreage (planted and harvested) and soybean yield information;2. Calculate long term averages for soybean yields, land area harvested, land area planted, and total production; and 3. identify yield and land use trends on a state and county basis.This bulletin emphasizes county average values and does not provide detailed farm specific information. It is a guide for seed dealers, farmers/ranchers, bankers, real estate brokers, state officials, and others who evaluate soil productivity, land values, and land use