Key Takeaways
- A world-record non-irrigated soybean yield was achieved using a conservation-focused system, as reported by Locus.
- Locus biological products played a central role in improving root health and nutrient efficiency.
- The record yield reached 154.98 bushels per acre in a no-till field.
- The program combined biologicals, foliar nutrition, and phosphorus-efficiency technologies.
- Results were independently verified and designed to be scalable for commercial growers.
Locus Biologicals Drive Record Performance in No-Till Soybeans
Veteran grower Chris Weaver of Hickory Hollow Farms has set a new world record for non-irrigated soybean yield, harvesting 154.98 bushels per acre in a no-till production system. The achievement was the result of a coordinated agronomic program developed in collaboration with Locus, Concept AgriTek, and AgroTech USA.
The record was achieved without irrigation, highlighting how biological inputs and nutrient-efficiency technologies can raise yield ceilings while maintaining conservation-minded practices. The program was implemented under real-world farming conditions, using standard equipment and commercially available products.
“We didn’t chase a record with gimmicks,” said Weaver. “What made the difference was having a trusted team around the farm, with Locus biologicals working in sync with our nutrition and agronomy.”
Locus Anchors Integrated Biological and Nutrient Strategy
The agronomic system was built around season-long coordination between Weaver and the three technology providers, with Locus supplying biological solutions focused on root vigor, nutrient availability, and stress tolerance.
The Locus program included Rhizolizer Prime BA, the Rhizolizer Prime Inoculant System, and Bombigro, all designed to enhance microbial activity in the root zone and improve nutrient uptake in a no-till, non-irrigated environment. These biologicals were paired with Concept AgriTek’s Calbor, VermiBoost, and foliar nutrition program, along with AgroTech USA’s NutriCharge technology to improve phosphorus availability and reduce soil tie-up at critical growth stages.
According to the collaborators, the combined approach improved pod retention, seed fill, and overall plant health throughout the growing season.
Independent Validation Confirms Yield Record
The yield was independently evaluated and verified under competition standards. Melvin Baile, a Maryland farmer and member of the Maryland Grain Producers Association, monitored the weighing process and sampling.
“We see a lot of soybeans come across the scale, but this load was different,” Baile said. He noted that Weaver’s fields showed clear evidence of intensive agronomic management, including close attention to soil conditions and in-season crop needs.
Baile added that the results reflected active stewardship rather than a passive production approach.
What the Locus-Led Program Means for Soybean Growers
Conservation Systems and Yield Potential
The record demonstrates that no-till, non-irrigated soybean systems can achieve elite-level yields when supported by biologicals and advanced nutrient-efficiency tools. The collaborators emphasized that the program is compatible with common farm practices, making it accessible for broad on-farm evaluation.
Partner Perspectives on Agronomic Synergy
“Soybeans require 4.0 pounds of nitrogen per bushel, and rhizobia can supply up to 90% of that nitrogen from the air,” said David Dyson, Agronomist at Locus. “Combining Locus biologicals with complementary nutrition technologies creates the foundation for record-breaking performance.”
The partners stated that the results highlight how integrated agronomy—anchored by biological solutions—can improve nutrient efficiency, strengthen resilience, and unlock new yield potential in conservation-based soybean production systems.
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