2002 Protein Results

2002 PROTEIN WINNERS AND LOSERS LISTS

2002 was an exceptional year for Minnesota soybean production. Although acres were down slightly from 2001 (6.9 vs. 7.2 million acres), state average yields increased by 8 bu/acre and prices were up substantially. Things couldn't be better – right? Unfortunately, rapidly increasing soybean production in South America, coupled with better soybean quality (particularly protein levels) has led to a usurpation of the U.S.'s dominant export position by countries such as Brazil. In order to compete, U.S. producers need to focus on soybean quality – especially protein quality.

Protein levels in Minnesota soybeans continue to lag behind other production areas in the U.S. According to the 2002 soybean quality survey by Dr. Hurburgh at Iowa State University, Minnesota ranks last out of the seven western Corn Belt states and is 1% lower in protein than the national average. As a result, Minnesota soybeans are at a competitive disadvantage both nationally and in the world market.

What can Minnesota producers do to reverse this trend and improve their competitive position? The most powerful tool at our disposal is variety selection. Soybean varieties vary greatly in both protein levels and yield. Additionally, varieties exist that are not only high yielding but above average in protein level as well. By selecting varieties that have both high yield and high protein Minnesota producers can effectively increase the overall protein level, and thus the profitability, of their crop.

In order to assist producers in making decisions on which variety to plant, U of M extension has compiled lists of "Winners" (varieties with both high yield and above average protein) and "Losers" (varieties with low protein). These lists come from two areas – Minnesota Soybean Grower Strip Trials and University of Minnesota Variety Trials. Simply click on the links below to access the lists.

2002 U of M Variety Trial Protein Results

2002 MSGA Strip Trial Protein Results

URL: http://www.soybeans.umn.edu/crop/variety/protein/2002/index.htm

Last Modified 8/24/05 by:
Sarah Jameson-Jones
Web Designer/Developer
james039@umn.edu