In the annuals of agriculture history, Idaho has long been celebrated for its bountiful harvests of potatoes, wheat, and other staple crops. Yet, amidst the verdant fields and rolling plains, one crop has remained conspicuously absent from he record books – barley. While other states have boasted impressive yield records for various grain crops, Idaho’s barley harvest have never been officially recognized on a state of national level. That is, until now.
Building on this momentum, the Idaho Barley Commission, in collaboration with industry sponsors, has launched the first-ever Barley Yield Contest in 2024 – an exciting initiative that aims to celebrate and elevate the art of barley cultivation. The 2024 contest year will serve as a pilot program for Idaho, with plans to expand to a national scale in 2025. This pioneering initiative not only adds an exciting new dimension to the agricultural landscape but also underscores Idaho’s rule as a trailblazer in the barley industry.
“The barley yield contest represents an opportunity to showcase the potential of barley in Idaho. By encouraging farmers to push the boundaries of barley production, we’re not just celebrating individual achievements but driving the entire industry forward. The contest embodies innovation. I am honored to be a part of a program that not only promotes competition but also showcases the vital role barley plays in Idaho.”
– Brett Wilken of Scoular in Twin Falls, ID
Your Barley Field Could Take You to Germany! Get Started!
DEADLINE for all divisions: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2025
Harvest season is upon us! As you prepare to bring this year’s barley crop out of the field, don’t forget to enter the 2026 National Barley Yield Contest. Whether you’re aiming for national recognition, cash prizes, or simply want to see how your barley measures up against the best, now is the time to review the Contest Rules and complete your Harvest Entry Form.
Both printable and online submission of Harvest Entry Forms are available! Please be sure to carefully review the 2026 Contest Rules before submitting your entry.
To make entering even easier during the busy harvest season, reach out to your local field representative. Many field reps are willing to sponsor entry fees, and they can help complete your Harvest Entry Form while they’re in the field with you. Be sure to ask your representative if they can assist with your contest entry this harvest!
2026 Lead Sponsor
Founding Sponsors
For their contribution and support of the National Barley Yield Contest since 2024
Interested in Being a Sponsor?
Contact Sydney Anderson, Communications and Program Manager; Sydney.anderson@barley.idaho.