JOHNSTON, IOWA (March 24, 2025) — Today marks the beginning of Iowa Ag Week, and Iowa corn farmers are excited to highlight the important role that agriculture plays in helping our state thrive. This annual celebration shines a spotlight on the contributions of farmers and the agricultural community that support our state’s economy and heritage.
Each year, Iowa’s corn farmers grow over 2.5 billion bushels of corn, adding over $16 billion back into the state’s economy. With over 86,900 farms in Iowa, 97% of those being family-owned, farm families are working hard to supply corn around the world. That is why Iowa Corn invests in research, market development, and education, striving to continue finding new uses and markets for Iowa grown corn.
"We like to say, you may think Iowa just grows corn. But the truth is corn grows Iowa,” said Stu Swanson, President of the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and a farmer from Galt, Iowa. “Iowa leads the nation in growing corn that is used for livestock feed, fiber, and renewable ethanol fuel. We grow more corn than we can use just in Iowa, which is why it’s important that we add value to each kernel by feeding it to livestock to become delicious corn-fed meat, dairy, and poultry products. Value is also added when corn is processed into ethanol fuel for a cleaner-burning, more-affordable option at the pump and the by-product from ethanol is a high-protein livestock feed ingredient. Corn is used in over 4,000 everyday products so it impacts not just every Iowa farmer’s life but all of our lives as Iowans.”
Iowa Corn invites all Iowans to join in the celebration of Iowa Ag Week as we recognize and appreciate the dedication of those who continue to grow the food, feed, fiber, and fuel we all rely on. To show your support, consider:
- Fueling your car with homegrown, cleaner burning and more affordable Unleaded 88;
- Purchasing corn-fed pork, beef, poultry, and dairy products;
- Supporting local FFA and 4-H chapters;
- Following Iowa Corn on Facebook and Instagram to help promote farmer stories; and
- Thanking those you know who work in Iowa agriculture.
Iowa farmers and agriculturalists are stewards of the land, innovators in technology, and leaders in their communities.
This week, and every week, we appreciate and value their commitment to agriculture. To learn more, visit: iowacorn.org.
The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is a 7,500-member strong grassroots-driven organization, headquartered in Johnston, Iowa, serving members across the state, and lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its farmer members to create opportunities for long-term Iowa corn grower profitability. For more information, visit iowacorn.org.
