Soybean and corn harvest across the state is about halfway complete as of October 11th (USDA-NASS), with 48% of soybeans and 51% of corn harvested.

Many farmers in Illinois are reporting higher-than-normal levels of Soybeans of Other Colors (SBOC), mostly purple, dark brown, or black seed. Several factors may be contributing to this issue, including genetics, environmental conditions, and disease pressure.

While most soybean discoloration in the U.S. is cosmetic and often doesn’t affect oil or protein, some farmers are being docked at the elevators.

If you’re seeing discolored soybeans on your farm or experiencing dockage or rejections in your area, please let us know by completing the Illinois Soybean Delivery & Quality Survey 2026. This quick survey will help us understand how widespread the issue is.

Rainfall yesterday, today and tomorrow may give farmers a small, and for some much needed, break in harvest.

With little rain over the past couple of weeks, farmers have been able to make steady harvest progress.