Townsend tops Field Crop Grain Corn Competition

Ross E. Townsend’s award-winning corn field on Maplewood Sideroad. Gary West photo

By Gary West

The Tavistock Agricultural Society has announced the results of this year’s Field Crop Grain Corn Competition, which drew several strong entries from local farmers.

Taking first place was Ross E. Townsend of Maplewood Sideroad, whose crop impressed judges with its quality and consistency. Second place went to Dwayne Ruby, while Trevor Townsend claimed third.

Judging criteria included seed placement, stalk strength, disease and insect resistance, weed control, cob length and fill, kernel depth and uniformity, and overall maturity – including the development of the kernel’s black layer, which indicates full ripeness.

The directors of the Tavistock Agricultural Society congratulate this year’s winners and invite all area farmers to participate in next year’s competition, which will include categories for hay, soybeans, silage corn and grain corn. Participation continues to grow each year as local producers showcase the quality of crops grown in the Tavistock area.