The map of the United States above shows how much of each state is covered by corn fields.
When driving across America’s heartland, it’s not uncommon to be surrounded by endless fields of corn stretching toward the horizon. But exactly how much of each state is actually covered in corn fields?
Using agricultural data from GrainStats and the USDA, we can see that corn remains one of America’s most dominant crops, though its presence varies dramatically from state to state.
The Corn Belt Dominance
Iowa leads the nation with an impressive 36.4% of its total land area dedicated to corn production. This means that one-third of the entire state is covered in corn fields – a testament to Iowa’s agricultural importance in America’s corn industry.
Illinois follows closely behind with 29.6% of its land devoted to corn cultivation, while Indiana rounds out the top three at 23.6%.
Regional Patterns
The traditional Corn Belt states predictably dominate the rankings, with Minnesota (15%), Nebraska (19.2%), Indiana (23.6%), and South Dakota (12%) all showing significant corn coverage.
In contrast, many western and northeastern states have minimal corn production. States like Nevada, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire have less than 0.2% of their land dedicated to corn fields.
Economic Significance
The concentration of corn production has substantial economic implications. States with higher percentages of corn fields typically have agricultural sectors that contribute significantly to their overall economy.
In Iowa, the corn industry alone generates over $10 billion annually and supports approximately 37,000 jobs directly related to corn production and processing.
Environmental Considerations
This concentration of corn production also raises important environmental questions. Monoculture farming practices required for large-scale corn production can impact soil health, water quality, and biodiversity.
States with the highest corn coverage percentages also face challenges related to fertilizer runoff and groundwater management due to the intensive nature of modern corn farming.
Changing Landscapes
While these percentages represent the current agricultural landscape, it’s worth noting that corn acreage fluctuates based on market demands, government policies, and climate conditions.
Recent trends show slight decreases in corn acreage in some traditional corn states as farmers diversify their crops in response to changing markets and growing conditions.
Despite these shifts, corn remains a defining feature of America’s agricultural identity, particularly in the Midwest, where it continues to shape not just the economy but the very landscape itself.
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