Questions have been raised whether widespread low yields have been eliminated in northern and central Illinois. It has been suggested that a drought in 2003 would not cause yields to decline as much as happened during the 1988 drought. Arguments include the fact that corn hybrids and soybean varieties have improved and can now withstand more adverse conditions. Within recent years, county yields in northern and central Illinois have been relatively stable, suggesting that low yields are less likely to occur. In addition, some areas in northern and central Illinois had low rainfall in 2002. In many of these areas, yields were only slightly below average suggesting that yields have become less sensitive to adverse weather.conditions. Within recent years, county yields in northern and central Illinois have been relatively stable, suggesting that low yields are less likely to occur. In addition, some areas in northern and central Illinois had low rainfall in 2002. In many of these areas, yields were only slightly below average suggesting that yields have become less sensitive to adverse weather.Fuel prices have increased substantially primarily due to concerns over supply disruptions that may occur in the Middle East. These price increases have lead to higher projected production costs for corn and soybeans in 2003. This paper discusses increases in fuel, nitrogen, and drying costs that may occur.
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