Missouri Soybean Yields Drop Due to Severe Drought

By Blake Jackson

The University of Missouri Extension’s latest Soybean Growth Monitoring Yield Prediction report indicates a significant decline in soybean yields due to insufficient rainfall across the state. Predictions show yields averaging 3-6 bushels per acre lower than the previous report, signaling challenging conditions for growers.

MU Extension soybean agronomy specialist Andre Reis highlighted the impact, noting that late-season drought is particularly harmful for soybeans planted after April 26. “Soybeans in drought-affected areas will senesce earlier, and seed moisture will decline rapidly,” Reis said, urging farmers to anticipate harvest operations.

State climatologist Zachary Leasor reports that August 2025 was the second-driest August on record, with a statewide average rainfall of only 0.79 inches.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor released September 4, nearly 94% of Missouri is experiencing at least abnormally dry conditions. Southeastern and southwestern Missouri are most affected, while northwestern areas remain relatively resilient.

The Soybean Growth Monitoring Tool combines historical and current weather data with crop growth models to simulate soybean development and forecast yields.

Its bi-monthly reports help farmers understand how current weather trends are impacting crop performance and expected outcomes. Early planted soybeans are less affected since drought began during the seed-filling stage, but overall soil water content is nearly depleted statewide.

Reis explains that these predictions allow for informed in-season decisions, giving growers insight into potential yield scenarios based on planting dates and maturity groups.

Missouri ranks as the nation’s seventh-largest soybean producer, with 5.8 million acres planted. Average yields range from 43 to 53 bushels per acre, varying by year and location. The state’s top-producing counties New Madrid, Mississippi, Stoddard, and Pemiscot are in the southeast.

The Soybean Farming Systems Research and Extension team, supported by the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, provides these forecasts to assist farmers in planning and optimizing harvest strategies.

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